“In conversation with Dr. Sebastiaan van der Bent, dermatologist and founder of Tattoosandhealth.com”.
How did your interest in tattoos and tattoo-related complications begin?
During my medical training, I once saw a patient with an allergic reaction to a red tattoo on her ankle. I found the skin reaction fascinating. Remarkably, at that time very little was known about this condition. Since then, I began to explore the subject further, and my interest has only continued to grow.
Many people assume that you are strongly opposed to tattoos and permanent make-up. Is that true?
I hear that quite often, but that is certainly not the case. In fact, certain conditions or circumstances can be a very good reason to get a tattoo. Medical tattoos—such as areola tattoos after breast cancer or permanent make-up for eyebrows in cases of hair loss—are good examples of this. However, I do believe that people should be properly informed. That is why I am committed to sharing knowledge and raising awareness.
Do you have a tattoo yourself?
That is a frequently asked question, but no, I do not have a tattoo. Not so much because of the potential complications—I simply think I have not yet come across the right design.
How did Tattoosandhealth.com come into existence, and what do you hope to achieve with it?
Tattoopoli.nl originated in the consultation room. As I increasingly saw patients with complaints related to tattoos or permanent make-up, I realized that there was hardly any reliable information available. Both physicians and tattoo artists—and certainly the individuals themselves—often had many questions. That is why I created a platform where this knowledge could come together. My goal is to better inform people, help recognize complications at an earlier stage, and ensure that the right medical care is provided in time when needed. Ultimately, I hope Tattooshealth.com not only supports patients, but also serves as a bridge between medical professionals and the tattoo community.
What is the biggest misconception about tattoos or permanent make-up that you often encounter?
Many people believe that complications occur immediately after a tattoo is applied, but that is not always the case. Allergic reactions, for example, may only develop months or even years later.
