Pink nipple tattoo - a risky beauty procedure

Ho Chi Minh City After getting pink nipple tattoos at a spa, Xuan, 28 years old, experienced itching, discharge and bleeding, infection, and large cracks in her nipples.

Initially, Xuan planned to use peeling cream at home because it was cheap and easy to do, but she was afraid of the slow effect. After giving birth, she was always self-conscious about her body and wanted to quickly "touch up" herself. She spent more than 20 million VND to have pink nipple tattoos. The spa staff performed the procedure and promised "no pain, no need for recovery, immediate effect and no side effects".

However, a few hours after the tattoo, Xuan started to feel itchy in the nipple area. The spa staff explained that this was a normal symptom, just need to apply moisturizer and clean every day. A few days later, the tattooed area started to ooze, had a foul odor, felt tight, and painful.

Receiving the patient, Dr. Ta Quoc Hung, Department of Dermatology - Cosmetic Dermatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, said that she was allergic to tattoo ink, causing irritation and complications in the nipple area. In addition, unsatisfactory hygiene and cosmetic procedures could also be the cause. To treat the patient, the doctor treated the inflammation, prescribed anti-allergy and anti-itch medication, and instructed the patient on home care.

The pink nipple tattoo method is widely advertised on social media platforms, with the content "regain youth after just one treatment, increase collagen production, anti-aging, prevent sagging". Spas commit to standard technology and procedures, ensuring safety.

According to a survey by VnExpress , this service attracts women aged 30 and over, especially women who have given birth and have good economic conditions. However, "tattoos are usually only a temporary fix because the tattoo color can fade and change over time," said Dr. Hung, adding that doing it at an unreliable facility also risks "inviting trouble."

According to doctors, tattoo ink is very durable and the structure of specialized tattoo machines with tattoo needles arranged in clusters can cause pain and be difficult to remove. Photo: Freepik — According to doctors, tattoo ink is very durable and the structure of specialized tattoo machines with tattoo needles arranged in clusters can cause pain and be difficult to remove. Photo: *Freepik*

Dark nipples are caused by many factors such as the effects of time leading to aging, inflammation, and the use of inappropriate care products. Hormonal changes in the body, such as during pre-menopause or postpartum, also change the color. Genetic factors or the effects of UV rays from sunlight are also causes.

According to Dr. Hung, pink tattooing can help restore the natural look of this area and is a legitimate need but potentially dangerous. The reason is that the nipple is a sensitive area and is susceptible to infection if the process is not guaranteed. Women are at risk of reacting to chemicals, ink ingredients, causing allergies and irritation. Tattoo equipment or needles that are not properly cleaned and sterilized can cause infection with hepatitis B, C or HIV. The tattooing process can be painful and takes time for the skin to recover.

Tattoo ink is very durable and the structure of the specialized tattoo machine with tattoo needles arranged in clusters can be painful and difficult to remove. In addition, the tattoo color can change over time and once tattooed, it is very difficult to restore the original color.

Sharing the same opinion, Dr. Pham Duy Linh, Department of Plastic Surgery, Duc Giang General Hospital ( Hanoi ), said that this is not a suitable method for everyone, especially pregnant and breastfeeding women, people with a history of allergies...

Some people get tattoos at unreliable establishments, with poor quality ink and unsterile tools, leading to cross-infection of blood diseases, dermatitis, and local infections.

"Therefore, people need to consider carefully before getting tattoos, not only on the nipples but also on other locations," the doctor said. Do not believe in promises of cheap tattoo removal on social networks, which will lead to "losing money and getting sick".

Besides tattoos, women need to be careful to consider other skin-brightening methods that are widely advertised online, such as creams and peeling gels. These products are often of unknown origin, have many risks, and carry a higher risk of skin damage and infection.

Doctors recommend the safest method is to regularly care for the nipple area with products that do not contain irritating chemicals, limit direct exposure to sunlight. Massage to increase blood circulation to this area, helping to improve natural color. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, adequate nutrition.

If you want to undergo cosmetic surgery to naturally brighten your skin, you should see a dermatologist for advice and safe care, Mr. Linh advises.

Thuy An

*Character names have been changed

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