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Thinking of Getting Inked?

FitSugar — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 08:00:09 -0800

I have never gotten a tattoo unless you count the temporary henna kind, but it looks like I might be in the minority. About 25 percent of 18- to 30-year-olds have been inked, and 65 percent of them are women. If you've always wanted to get your fave butterfly etched onto your ankle, here are some things WebMD wants you to know before anyone puts a needle to your skin.

Pay the money and go to a shop that has licensed tattoo artists. Since getting a tattoo involves breaking the skin with a metal object and coming into contact with blood, you want to make sure the studio is clean, so there's the lowest risk possible for infection.
There are serious risks involved, such as contracting life-threatening HIV or hepatitis C from unclean equipment. You could also get other infections including impetigo, MRSA, or cellulitis. It's OK if you don't know what these are, just know you don't want them.
It's also possible to have an allergic reaction to the tattoo ink, so before getting an enormous fairy imprinted across your back, you probably want to do a small patch test on your skin first.

To find out what else you should know, read more.

Also note that your skin will look a lot different at age 25 than it will at 65, so keep that in mind when choosing the design, size of tattoo, and area of your body.
The artist should thoroughly wash his or her hands before they begin, and wear gloves to prevent the spread of infection.
Be sure all needles are removed from a sterile, single-use package, and all equipment is sterilized after each use.
Make sure you don't drink alcohol or take drugs (including aspirin) the night before or while getting a tattoo.
If you're sick, wait until you're healthy to get your tattoo, since you'll need energy to heal.
Follow the after-care instructions so your skin heals quickly and without any complications.
After you've had a tattoo, you can change your mind and have it removed by a doctor, but know that your skin most likely won't look like it did pre-tattoo. The procedure tends to require a series of visits, it's expensive, and often the tattoo can't be completely removed.

Do you have a tattoo? Did you have any complications? Tell me in the comments section below.

Source: Flickr User geishaboy500

Permanent Ink and Pain: Tattoo Quiz

FitSugar — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 12:30:00 -0800

Thinking of professing your Valentine's Day love with a tattoo? You might want know a thing or two about the pain association with getting permanently inked - love can hurt. Plus, you might run into an unfortunate and unexpected break up and have to fancy some maneuvering a la Johnny Depp and his "Winona Forever" tattoo. Take this short quiz and see if you know how Johnny changed his tattoo.

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Anatomy of a Tattoo

FitSugar — Wed, 16 May 2007 03:30:00 -0700

I am ever curious about how the human body works, and recently I pondered the permanence of tattoos. Skin is always shedding layers of dead cells (especially if you exfoliate), so how can a tattoo remain year after year?

Let's start at the beginning with how a tattoo is created. Tattoos are made by inserting pigment into the skin with an electrically powered solid needle that punctures the skin between 50 and 3,000 times per minute (makes me think of a sewing machine - yikes!!). The needle penetrates the skin by about a millimeter and deposits a drop of insoluble ink into the skin with each puncture.

When you look at a person's tattoo, you're seeing the ink through the epidermis - the outer layer of skin. The ink resides in the dermis - the second layer of skin, just below the epidermis. Dermis cells are far more stable than the cells of the epidermis, so the tattoo's ink will stay in place, with only minor fading and dispersion (spreading out), for a person's entire life!

Fit's Tips: FYI - tattoo parlors are NOT regulated by the FDA and not ALL states require tattoo parlors to be licensed. If I were you, I'd go to a place that is licensed and inspected by the state. The licensed places will definitely follow all the correct sterilization and sanitation procedures. Since tattoos involve needles and blood, you want to make sure there is little risk for the transmission of diseases such as hepatitis, tuberculosis, and STIs. These regulations may make tattoos safer, but it sure won't make those needles hurt any less!

Want to see some interesting tattoos? Then read more

View 6 Photos ›

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Get Physical: Give Blood, Give Life

FitSugar — Sat, 12 May 2007 03:30:00 -0700

Blood donations are always needed by the American Red Cross. For most people, it's really not a big deal to give, but it can mean life to someone in need. So why not bring your significant other with you, and you'll be making a difference together.

If you've never given blood before, here are some things you should know:

You must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 lbs, and have not donated blood in the last 8 weeks (56 days).
You should be healthy and sickness-free.
You will be interviewed before giving blood to make sure you qualify -they'll ask about your health history.
If you are taking antibiotics at the time, you can't give blood, but birth control pills are fine.
If you've recently had acupuncture, it's acceptable, as long as you have proof that the needles used were sterile. The same goes with body piercings - if you don't have proof, you must wait at least 12 months.

Wondering about if you have tattoos? To find out, read more

If you've recently gotten a tattoo, you must prove that it was applied in a state-regulated facility, using sterile techniques. If there is any question about it, you must also wait 12 months.
If you've recently visited a country where malaria is found, you must wait 12 months. If you've lived there, you must wait 3 years. If you've spent long periods of time in countries where Mad Cow Disease is found, you cannot give blood.
You'll also get a brief physical exam - they'll take your pulse, check your blood pressure, your temp, and your blood count (with a tiny prick in your finger).

Fit's Tip: On the day you are planning to give blood, make sure you drink a lot of water all day long - it'll make your blood flow easier. Eat well too, because giving blood can really deplete your energy. Right after you give blood, they usually have juice, pizza, and snacks waiting for you though!

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Are Henna Tattoos a Health Risk?

FitSugar — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 06:00:00 -0700

Summer festivals are in full swing, and one thing I see at many of them is women applying Henna tattoos. Also known as Mehndi, these tattoos are not actually permanent and only last between one and three weeks, depending on your skin and the quality of the henna. The tattoo is applied in the form of a paste that looks like chocolate frosting made by grinding up dried leaves from the henna plant and is mixed with water, lemon, and essential oils. After the paste dries, it's peeled or picked off after about 24 hours and you're left with an orangey-brown stain tattoo on your skin.

Since it's made from a plant, it has to be safe, right? To find out read more.

Henna is perfectly safe, when mixed with lemon, water, and other natural ingredients such as eucalyptus oil. The problem is, some henna artists apply something called black henna. This type of henna is dangerous because it contains para-phenylenediamine (PPD) hair dye. When applied to your skin it leaves a black stain, but can cause blisters, open sores, and scarring.

How can you tell if a henna tattoo is safe or not? Traditional henna paste will look dark green, khaki, or greenish brown, not black, so if a henna artist is applying a slick black paste, do not get a tattoo from them. You can also ask the artist how long you're supposed to leave the paste on. If they say less than one hour, they're using PPD. Traditional henna doesn't stain your skin that quickly. Also ask the artist what color the stain will be once the paste comes off. If the answer is black, walk away. Henna will leave an orange stain that will darken to red brown or dark brown, but it's never black. If you're just not sure, it's best to skip out on the henna tattoo. If you're set on getting one, buy a henna kit ($24) and do it yourself.

Dealing With Rude People at the Gym

FitSugar — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 09:00:16 -0700

Working out is supposed to relieve stress and calm your nerves, but when I have to deal with rude people while trying to work out, it really aggravates me. If you find yourself putting up with inconsiderate and disrespectful fellow gym-goers, here is some advice from other FitSugar readers.

Syako says, "Usually I just ignore things that aggravate me or I find rude."
"People are quite often rude in my gym. Not to be rude per say, but just very self-involved with no consideration for others. Anyway, I use the opportunity to laugh in disbelief. The laughing puts me in a good mood." - michiny
StaceyP says to speak up for yourself. "I once had a woman jump in front of me to take a spot in a pool lane for which I had obviously been very patiently waiting for before she even walked through the door. As politely as I could, I stepped in and simply said that I had been waiting for it."
"My mother always said if people are in such a rush and rude, let them go." - TrnSmleShiftRpt
"I pity them. I feel sorry for people who have become adults and not yet learned how to treat other people with respect. I silently thank my parents for raising me with some sense that what I want isn't always the most important thing in the world. I take a deep breath and feel grateful for having a happy, full life, filled with people who love me; that getting the first bike in the class isn't the best thing that happened to me all day." - Vsugar

To see the other suggestions read more.

If there are rude people at the gym, one anonymous reader just exercises harder and says, "It is amazing how hard I can work out when I'm miffed."
Candace Foxx uses a little sarcasm when it comes to rude people. When a couple started using the piece of equipment she was about to use, she says, "I just stood there and stared. Then, after they were finished, the guy was like, 'Oh, were you using that?' I said, 'No, I just brought the bench clear across the room for you guys to use it.'"
You could always complain to the people who run the gym, suggests tlsgirl.
Even though you may not be able to make others be more polite, you can choose not to be rude yourself. NikkiRuby shares, "I have a tattoo that covers my entire back. One day I was running on the treadmill and mid run I had an older woman come up to me, stopped me from running and said, 'I don't understand why such a pretty girl would get such an ugly tattoo.' I could not believe it! . . . I just simply responded with, 'You don't have to be rude.' If she wants to live her life putting her negative energy on others that is her choice. I just can't be that cruel."

Lauren Conrad's Life Shapes Up Beyond The Hills

FitSugar — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 10:28:48 -0700

Lauren Conrad's tale proves that moving on and letting go make for a healthy life. The former star of The Hills has not only embraced love with the actor Kyle Howard, but healthy eating is a staple of her new life, too. Gone is the worry of what others think and the junk-food cravings. All good changes for the natural beauty, which she shares in the upcoming issue of Shape.

Once a calorie counter, LC is more flexible these days when it comes to food choices. Opting for fresh fare - fruit, organic salad greens, and lean proteins - she has tamed her cravings.

"I've found when all I'm eating is really fresh, healthy foods, I stop craving pizza and burgers," she says. Lauren's even switched to super-nutritious nibbles (what she calls "snack plates"): hummus, sliced turkey, cucumbers, and apples. "When I have these foods in front of me, I find it easier to avoid high-calorie binges," she says.

For more on her workouts and her new tattoo keep reading.

Spring Running Essential: Arm Warmers

FitSugar — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 03:30:00 -0700

Spring weather is unpredictable, which means layering is important. When headed out for a long run, you can wear a tank but keep your arms covered with arm warmers. No longer just for the legs, or the dancers, arm warmers are a great accessory for runners and cyclists alike. Marathoner Kara Goucher sported a pair while running Boston yesterday.

Arm warmers range from $18 to $40 depending on the material used. You can opt for classic black like Kara, or go for some conspicuous stripes to make you more visible on the road. Check out some options below, from classic black to tattoo sleeves.

Sugoi MidZero Arm Warmer ($26)	SockGuy Acrylic Arm Warmers ($20)
Sock Guy Hottie Arm Warmer ($20)	Pearl Izumi Woolie Seamless Arm Warmers ($15)	Primal Wear Tatto Arm Warmer ($23)

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What to Expect When Giving Blood

FitSugar — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 14:30:00 -0700

If you're a healthy young woman, why not spread the health by donating blood? It's an easy way to give back to the community and maybe even save someone's life. According to the Red Cross, someone in the US needs blood every two seconds, yet only 5 percent of eligible adults donate annually.

If you're 17 or over and weigh at least 110 pounds, you are eligible, with a few exceptions: You can't give if you're sick or on antibiotics, and new tattoos and travel to certain countries require a waiting period. But otherwise, there's no reason to wait - especially if you have type O blood, since your blood is accepted by all other blood types. Here's what to expect from your first blood-giving experience.

Before donating, make sure you are well-fed (preferably with iron-rich foods) and hydrated, and get a good night's sleep.
When you arrive, you'll sit through a quick physical exam, where a technician will take your pulse, blood pressure, and temperature to make sure you're healthy.
You'll fill out a form with your basic demographic info, and a staffer will ask you questions about your health and medical history.

For what happens next, read more.

A tiny finger prick will determine your blood count and test for anemia.
A staff member will swab your arm and insert the needle to begin filling the bag, a process that lasts about 7 to 10 minutes.
When a pint of blood has been collected, you will be escorted to an area offering refreshments and food where you can refuel and rest up.
The whole process takes about an hour. Afterward, be sure to get extra food and fluids, and avoid any strenuous exercise for about five hours.

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Halloween Survival Tip: Healthy Handouts

FitSugar — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 14:30:00 -0700

I put off buying Halloween candy until the last minute, but there really is no reason you have to hand out ~~sugar bombs~~ candy to all those trick-or-treaters. There are plenty of other options out there, and in my experience plenty of kids love filling their goodie bags with variety of stuff, not just sweets. If you're still trying to figure out what you're going to pass out to the costumed kiddies tomorrow night, check out this list for some healthy options.

Glow Stick Bracelets: Not just for raves anymore, the under-12 set is hip to the joy of glow sticks. Help keep those little trick-or-treaters visible on a dark night and encourage them to add the glow bracelet to their costume right away.
Super Balls: Talk about well-rounded fun! Chasing these small bouncy balls around can provide an energy outlet for children on a sugar high.
Temporary Tattoos: Give the treat that keeps on giving. Applying fake tattoos is a fun activity, and the little ones get to show off their ink later.

I have a couple more ideas so just read more.

Mardi Gras Beads: Don't be fooled to thinking only little girls go ga-ga over shiny beads. These necklaces cross the gender divide and will spruce up any costume.
Novelty Band-Aids: You don't need a boo-boo to sport a fun Band-Aid. Plus with a bandage, the little ones can always play the sympathy card.

The great thing about little toys, stickers, and tattoos is that any left overs you have won't spoil, or tempt you, so you can use them next year. Just don't forget where you stow them.

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