Talk

What's behind the desire for permanent body art, and what consequences can it have?

Tattoos are no longer a marginal phenomenon. Whether as a personal statement, a memento, or an expression of individuality, millions of people wear their stories on their skin. But why are tattoos so fascinating?

Dermatologist Dr. Yael Adler and forensic biologist Dr. Mark Benecke take a look at the cultural significance of tattoos, current trends, and the question of why body art has become such an important part of many people’s identities.

The focus is also on health aspects: What actually happens in the skin during the process of getting a tattoo? What risks can the inks and procedures pose, and what does science know about possible long-term effects? Between self-expression, body culture, and health concerns, this is about much more than just ink under the skin. How do tattoos change our view of beauty and our own bodies? And why do they continue to polarize opinion to this day?

Featuring: Dr. Yael Adler, dermatologist and author | Dr. Mark Benecke, criminal biologist, specialist in forensic entomology and author

Host: Andreas Wunn, ZDF

In cooperation with ZDF/Zweites Deutsches Fernsehen, Mainz