Tattoos Effects Your Skin

A tattoo is a marking made by inserting indelible ink into the dermis layer of the skin to change the pigment. Tattoos on humans are a type of decorative body modification, while tattoos on animals are most commonly used for identification purposes. The first written reference to the word, "tattoo" (or Samoan "Tatau") appears in the journal of Joseph Banks, the naturalist aboard Captain Cook's ship the HMS Endeavour in 1769: "I shall now mention the way they mark themselves indelibly, each of them is so marked by their humor or disposition". Although more and more people these days seem to have tattoos, getting one carries some risks. courtesy:Perry Piekarski, ehow.com



Infection: One of the biggest concerns with a tattoo is the risk of disease or infection. Tattoos are applied using sharp needles and other equipment that injects the ink directly into your skin. If these supplies are unsterile, you run the risk of a serious infection. It's essential that you follow the instructions given to you by your tattoo artist or doctor when caring for the tattooed area in the weeks after getting it. According to WebMD, "The risk of infection is the reason the American Association of Blood Banks requires a one-year wait between getting a tattoo and donating blood."

Allergic Reaction: Although seldom a problem, it's possible for an individual to have an allergic reaction to the ink in their tattoo. WebMD states that "occasionally, people may develop an allergic reaction to tattoos they have had for years." Talk with your doctor if you're concerned about having an allergic reaction to tattoo ink.

Permanence: Tattoos are permanent--well, almost. While it is possible to remove the tattoo medically using laser technology, the process is both incredibly expensive and could take years. WebMD warns that "complete removal without scarring may be impossible." Make sure that your tattoo is something you're willing to live with, because otherwise you're likely stuck with it for life.

Temporary Swelling: In the weeks after getting your tattoo, you can expect the area to swell up and turn slightly red. However, according to DermNet NZ, this "is an expected side effect of the tattooing process" and "disappears within two to three weeks." As mentioned, proper care of the tattooed area is crucial to a healthy recovery.

Protect Against Cell Phone Radiation

Ever since I noticed that a paper clip would stick to my cell phone right where I hold it to my ear, I've been worried about what that might be doing to me. Cell phones also emit microwave radiation, just as portable phones do. Here's what you can do to protect yourself, short of getting rid of your phone altogether. courtesy:catmccabe, ehow.com



Few Ways:

> First, check the SAR rating on your phone, by going to the FCC's website. SAR stands for Specific Absorption Rate. That's how much heat your body is absorbing from the device. Understand that the number available from the FCC only measures the SAR when the phone is at your ear, not when it's on your body or in a pocket.

> Check the fine print that comes with your phone. Some cell phones are not designed to be carried or held less than an inch from your body! Your body includes your chest, your ear, and your thigh. Know what that means? The company isn't responsible if you get sick as a result of using their product. They warned you.

> Use the paper clip test when upgrading your phone. Does it stick near where you hold it close to your ear? Buy the phone that has the best shielding.

> Don't wear the phone on your body. Not in any pocket of your clothing. Not the breast pocket, or your front or back pocket. Not anywhere near your reproductive organs, male or female. Wear it in a holster you can clip to your belt or purse.

> Buy a Bluetooth earpiece, so the phone is never next to your ear. This is especially important for children, who reportedly are more susceptible to brain tumors than adults.

> Use your cell phone sparingly. Do you really need to chat when you're in line at the bank or the grocery store checkout? You survived just fine, driving home without dialing up. Try it once in a while. Go without, and stay healthy.