5 Scientific Facts That Prove Tattoos May Actually Be Therapy
You’ve heard the phrase tattoo therapy. It starts with an itch and it ends with the ink in your skin. It’s beauty; it’s art, it’s a conversation piece. Tattoo enthusiasts understand how it feels to sport a fresh tattoo, to choose an outfit that makes it pop, to selfie it up on social media, and tell friends the story behind it all.
It’s a rush. But did you know there’s science involved?
Scientific research shows surprising health and wellness benefits associated with getting inked. From immune system boosts to increased pain tolerance, stress reduction, psychological empowerment, and social bonding, tattoos offer more than just a form of self-expression.
And while we’re not saying it’s as potent as pharmaceuticals or traditional therapy, tattoos are a feel-good kind of medicine with perks that go way beyond aesthetics. As our understanding of the mind-body connection continues to evolve, the scientific exploration of tattoos opens new avenues for investigating the intricate relationship between body art and well-being.
So while you may not have needed more reasons to book that new tattoo, we’ll give you some anyway. 🙂
5 Surprising Ways Tattoos Act Like Medicine
Stress Reduction
Tattoos may have a calming effect on the nervous system. The rhythmic and repetitive nature of the tattooing process, combined with the release of endorphins, has been associated with stress reduction. In a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, researchers found that individuals experienced a decrease in cortisol levels, a stress hormone, during the tattooing process. This suggests that getting a tattoo could act as a stress-relief mechanism.
Immune System Boost
Recent studies suggest that getting a tattoo may have a positive impact on the immune system. Researchers at the University of Alabama found that individuals who received multiple tattoos exhibited higher levels of immunoglobulin A, an antibody that plays a crucial role in immune function. This could indicate that the body perceives tattooing as a mild stressor, prompting an immune response that enhances overall immunity.
Improved Pain Tolerance
The process of getting a tattoo involves the introduction of a needle into the skin, stimulating the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. This repeated exposure to the tattooing process may contribute to an increased pain tolerance over time. A study published in the American Journal of Human Biology found that individuals with more tattoo experience reported lower sensitivity to pain compared to those with fewer or no tattoos.
Psychological Empowerment
A study in the journal Body Image found that individuals with tattoos reported higher levels of body appreciation and lower anxiety about their appearance. Xclusive Ink artists have the pleasure of hearing their clients tell personal stories about the deeply personal significance of their tattoos. They represent milestones, memories, or cherished beliefs. The act of choosing and getting a tattoo can empower individuals by providing a sense of control over their bodies and lives. Psychologically, this empowerment can contribute to improved mental well-being and self-esteem.
Social Bonding & Community
Tattoo lovers know how an amazing piece can foster connections. It can happen in a grocery store line, at the gym or at work. A stranger befriends you and asks about your tattoo. Instantly, you’re chatting and making connections. Research published in the journal Symbolic Interaction suggests that tattoos can serve as social markers, facilitating connections among individuals with similar beliefs or interests. This sense of community and shared identity can positively impact mental health.
Ready for some tattoo therapy? Contact us now for a booking!
