How tattoos negatively affect the thermoregulation of the skin

American scientists have warned about the danger of tattoos for the body. Experts from Southern Methodist University said that tattoos negatively affect the sweat glands and disrupt the thermoregulation of the skin.

The Journal of Applied Physiology published the results of a study in which the condition of the skin and sweat glands of volunteers with tattoos ranging from 5.6 square centimeters on the forearm or shoulder was studied. The test subjects had to be in a special suit with tubes through which hot water was supplied for half an hour to cause an active sweating process.

The researchers tracked the skin's reaction to temperature changes. It turned out that the clean areas of the skin showed the usual reaction. At the same time, the eccrine glands responsible for heat exchange produced less sweat in the areas where the tattoos were applied, and at the same time the sweat was saltier.

Experts came to the conclusion that tattoos violate the mechanisms of skin secretion, which is why the body copes worse with temperature changes, and this is considered a "potential long-term clinical side effect."

Scientists have noted that people have hundreds of sweat glands on one square centimeter of skin, so people with small tattoos don't have to worry about their health. The presence of one or two small body drawings should not seriously harm the body. But in cases where most of the skin is clogged, like this guy from Switzerland, there may be health problems.