Claris Group Answer The Question "What Is The Relationship Between Melanoma And Tattoos?"

Skin cancer experts, Claris Group, report that New Zealand has a big tattoo culture, with one in five adults inked up, and while tattoos themselves are usually harmless once healed, they can make it harder to detect melanoma, which is why certain precautions should be taken before getting a design.

At Claris Group they advise against getting a tattoo over an existing mole, because it can make it tricky to identify changes that may signal melanoma. It can also be dangerous because tattoo ink can seep into skin tissue and mimic the spread of metastatic melanoma, creating false concerns. They say it’s still fine to get tattoos, but you should avoid tattooing over a mole. Some people incorporate their mole into the tattoo design for artistic purposes, and this can be a great way to conceal a mole while still leaving it open for examination.

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer and can be identified by any changes in existing moles, and any lesions that change, itch, bleed or don’t heal. If a mole is asymmetrical, has an uneven border, is not a consistent colour, or is bigger than 6mm in diameter, you need to see a skin specialist immediately. Basically, if a mole evolves in any way, it’s time to book an appointment.

At Claris Group they offer comprehensive skin checks and full body mole mapping, as well as specialist surgical and non-surgical services such as excisions and the non-invasive procedures. There can be certain health risks associated with getting a tattoo, but skin cancer is not one of them. Despite warnings against tattooing over or too close to a mole or lesion, there are no known links between tattoos and skin cancers such as melanoma. It should also be noted that there are no known risks for melanoma survivors getting tattoos after recovery. It is only the interfering and concealing aspects of tattoos that can form a destructive relationship with melanoma.

If you already have a tattoo over a mole, don’t panic! Now that you’re aware of the dangers, you can visit Claris Group the tam will work provide you with a full comprehensive skin check paying more attention to the tattooed area of your skin. Claris Group recommends getting a skin check every year unless you have been diagnosed with melanoma the checks can be more frequent six or three monthly, and in between those checks you should examine yourself at home. If you don’t know how to read your body, they have a basic how-to on their website and their flyer has the ABDCE algorithm to assist you feel free to pop in and pick one up. Melanoma can be stopped early in its tracks, with routine checks and close attention to your health.

For more information on skin cancer clinics, skin doctors and mole checks please go to http://claris.co.nz .