CipherX launches world's first painless microdot tattoo

CipherX, a biotech firm based in London, has introduced the first-ever commercially available microdot tattoo, utilizing a painless applicator that employs dissolvable microneedles rather than a conventional tattoo gun. Launched yesterday, these permanent tattoos consist of a patch filled with multiple microneedles containing tattoo ink and polymer. The applicator presses the patch onto the skin for 15 minutes before it is removed, requiring no aftercare. Co-founder Ferdinand Kohle, a material scientist with a PhD from Cornell, initially envisioned microneedles for pharmaceutical use. The microneedles do not reach pain receptors, ensuring a painless experience. So far, 500 microdot tattoos have been applied, with designs ranging from 3 to 11 millimeters. Kohle aims to enhance customization options and is investigating medical uses with funding from Innovate UK, clarifying that this technology is not intended to replace traditional tattoo artists.