In the ever-evolving world of body modification, tongue tattoos stand out as a particularly niche and intriguing practice. While tattoos on arms, backs, and legs have become commonplace, the idea of inking one's tongue remains a bold frontier that captures public fascination and, often, a fair share of squeamishness.
The Viral Glimpse into Tongue Tattooing
A tattoo artist has provided a rare behind-the-scenes look at the process of tongue tattooing through a clip that originally surfaced in 2022. Shared on the popular TikTok account @tattoosoftruth, the footage has since amassed over 37,600 likes and sparked countless reactions from viewers worldwide.
The video meticulously documents the initial steps, showing the artist using a squirty solution to thoroughly rinse and clean the client's mouth. This preparatory scrub is crucial to ensure a sterile environment before the needle even touches the tongue. The anonymous customer, whose final design remains undisclosed, appears delighted with the result, beaming with a broad grin as they rinse away residual liquid into a basin.
An Unexpected Focus: The Flavour Factor
Typically, discussions around unusual tattoos centre on aesthetics or the anticipated pain levels. Interestingly, tongue tattoos are reported to be relatively low on the pain scale compared to more sensitive areas like armpits or inner elbows. However, this particular clip diverted attention to a more unexpected query.
Viewers found themselves overwhelmingly curious about one specific aspect: what did the cleaning solution taste like? Comments flooded in, with one person joking, "Did he use old green soap? Lmao must've tasted awesome." Another directly asked, "The real question is....... WHAT DID IT TASTE LIKE?" Others highlighted the awkwardness of maintaining eye contact with the artist during such an intimate and unusual cleaning process.
Potential Risks to Taste Perception
Beyond the initial curiosity, it's important to note that tongue tattoos carry unique risks, particularly concerning taste buds. Paediatric dentist Jonelle Anamelechi explained to Healthline that taste buds contain receptor cells for distinguishing flavours like bitter, sour, salty, or sweet.
"A tattoo punctures, damages, and sometimes kills those cells, changing your perception of taste," Anamelechi stated. This potential alteration is a significant consideration for food lovers and anyone contemplating such a procedure.
Growing Interest Despite the Oddities
Despite the inherent peculiarities and risks, the video has not deterred all viewers. Some expressed a keen interest in visiting the Brisbane-based studio in Australia featured in the clip to get their own tongue tattoo, indicating a growing, albeit niche, appeal for this form of body art.
The fascination with tongue tattoos underscores a broader trend in body modification where individuals seek increasingly unique and personal expressions. While the process may seem daunting or strange to many, it continues to attract those willing to explore the boundaries of conventional tattooing.
