Tattoos, once a symbol of rebellion, have become a celebrated form of self-expression. But how much do you know about these permanent pieces of art? Tattoos have been used for thousands of years, with tattooed mummies found dating back to 3370-3100 BC. While the reasons have varied—from spiritual rites to status symbols—the fundamental process has stayed the same. Creating a tattoo involves using a needle to inject ink into the second layer of skin, known as the dermis. The cells of the dermis are much more stable than those of the outer layer, the epidermis, which is why tattoos are permanent. Tattoo inks are made from various compounds, with different pigments used to create different colors. It's fascinating how our bodies react to tattoos. When the needle punctures the skin, our immune system treats the ink like an invader. White blood cells, known as 'macrophages', rush to the site to 'eat up' the invader. Some macrophages manage to break down the ink, but others get filled with it and stay in the dermis, which is why we see the tattoo design on our skin. Tattoo removal is possible but can be a lengthy and painful process, involving lasers that break down the ink particles, allowing the macrophages to remove them. Today, tattoos are seen as a form of personal expression and art. While they were once associated with certain subcultures, they're now accepted in many walks of life. However, it's important to remember they're permanent, and proper thought should be given before getting one.