A Clinical Study on the Tattoos of Young Korean Males

Lee, Hyung Rae; Kim, Mi Sun; Han, Tae Young; Son, Sook ja; Lee, June Hyunkyung; Lee, Hong Sun

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Recently, tattooing of the body has become popular, and its associated psychological, sociological, and cultural implications have changed compared to past years. However, little is known about the current clinical features, including motive and satisfaction for having a tattoo, because of societal repulsions toward the practice.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the clinical manifestations of tattooed young Korean males and to compare the findings with previous studies.
METHODS
Between September 2010 and July 2011, 223 patients with tattoos who visited the Eulji Medical Center and Armed Forces Yangju Hospital were selected. The patients were evaluated through a self-administrated questionnaire and physical examinations.
RESULTS
The majority of patients were classified into the "did not complete university" education group (56.1%). Most tattooed males had two living parents (83.4%) and were raised in households whose income statuses were not marked by poverty. The average age at which their first tattoo was received was 19.0 years. Most tattooed males had a negative attitude towards their tattoos (67.3%). The most common motivation for getting a tattoo was curiosity, but cosmetic purposes were also important (19.4%). A majority of the tattooing was conducted by a tattoo artist (73.3%). The most common tattoo content was letters. Black-colored tattoos were most frequently observed. The complication rate was 13.9%. The most common motivation for tattoo removal was negative comments that were made at work, in public, and in school (38.2%).
CONCLUSION
Recent patterns of tattooing have changed significantly since previous reports. The satisfaction rate in getting a tattoo was not favorable. Understanding the current clinical features related to tattooing is important and it is necessary for dermatologists to provide professional advice regarding tattooing among young males.