In a groundbreaking development, London’s CipherX has introduced the first commercially available microdot tattoos, offering a virtually painless tattooing experience. Using innovative microneedles, this technology eliminates the traditional tattoo gun.
The process utilizes a patch embedded with dissolvable microneedles composed of tattoo ink and polymer. These patches are applied onto the skin using a specialized applicator that ensures the microneedles dissolve painlessly, leaving a permanent design. Remarkably, no aftercare is required post-application.
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Since its launch in London, CipherX has already applied 500 of these tattoos, marking their commercial debut. The tattoos are available in designs ranging from 3 to 11 millimeters, with future possibilities for customization.
A Vision Born from Needle Phobia
Ferdinand Kohle, the material scientist behind this innovation, gained his PhD from Cornell. His needle phobia inspired him to pivot from pharmaceutical microneedles to tattoo applications. Kohle envisions this technology enabling those previously hesitant about tattoos to embrace body art without fear.
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Kohle shares, “Scaling down the needles changes their interaction with the skin. They bypass pain receptors, making the process entirely painless.”
Enhancing Accessibility Without Replacing Tradition
Kohle clarifies that microdot tattoos aren’t meant to replace traditional methods. Instead, they target demographics who shy away from traditional tattoos due to fear of pain. “This is perfect for people who want tattoos but are apprehensive about the process,” Kohle notes.
With plans to extend their designs and explore medical uses, CipherX is receiving support through Innovate UK grants. Although innovative, Kohle emphasizes the respect for traditional tattoo artistry.
In related advancements, the past year has seen other technological forays into tattooing, such as Blackdot’s AI-powered tattoo device which claims enhanced speed and safety.
All images courtesy of CipherX.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the technology behind CipherX’s pain-free tattoos?
CipherX uses microneedles embedded in a patch, composed of tattoo ink and polymer, applied with a specialized applicator. These microneedles dissolve painlessly into the skin, leaving a permanent design without the traditional tattoo gun.
Who developed the microdot technology used by CipherX?
The microdot technology was developed by Ferdinand Kohle, a material scientist with a PhD from Cornell, who was inspired by his needle phobia to shift from pharmaceutical microneedles to tattooing.
Are microdot tattoos meant to replace traditional tattoos?
No, microdot tattoos are not intended to replace traditional methods. They are designed for people who want tattoos but are apprehensive about the pain associated with conventional methods.