Overview

• International Tattoo Day falls each July 17 and originated in the United States as National Tattoo Day before expanding to a global celebration.
• Tattooing dates back to at least 2160 BCE, with Egyptian mummies revealing early ink work for protective, social and religious purposes.
• Contemporary artists practice a wide array of styles, from traditional and watercolor to geometric, blackwork and Japanese-inspired designs.
• Health professionals recommend daily moisturization, limited sun exposure and avoiding water immersion to promote proper healing and maintain color vibrancy.
• Recent research suggests tattooed individuals may exhibit more extroverted personalities and stronger immune responses, highlighting ongoing interest in the art’s wider cultural and scientific impact.