Keith “Bang Bang” McCurdy: The Tattoo Artist Revolutionizing the Medical Field
Keith “Bang Bang” McCurdy, the renowned tattoo artist who has inked celebrities like Rihanna, Cara Delevingne, Justin Bieber, and LeBron James, is embarking on a groundbreaking mission to transform tattoos into medical diagnostic devices. Collaborating with Dr. Carson Bruns, an assistant professor of mechanical engineering at the ATLAS Institute at the University of Colorado in Boulder, McCurdy is introducing “Magic Ink,” a revolutionary tattooing ink that can be activated or deactivated by light exposure. This innovation promises to revolutionize healthcare by providing real-time medical information through tattoos.
The Concept of Magic Ink
Magic Ink consists of dye particles encapsulated in medical-grade PMMA, a material commonly used in dermal fillers. Once injected into the skin, these particles become visible when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. By shining a regular flashlight, including one from a phone, over the tattoo, the particles can be deactivated, making the tattoo disappear. This unique property enables the tattoo to be switched on and off at will.
Creative Applications of Magic Ink
Initially, Magic Ink is being utilized in artistic expressions. Tattoo enthusiasts can now opt for dynamic tattoos that can be altered or animated by changing the light exposure. This opens up a realm of creative possibilities, allowing individuals to express themselves in innovative ways.
Medical Diagnostic Potential of Magic Ink
The true potential of Magic Ink lies in its medical applications. McCurdy and Bruns envision a future where tattoos can provide real-time medical information to individuals. One of the primary goals is to develop tattoos that can alert people with diabetes about their blood sugar levels. By incorporating sensors into the tattoo ink, the tattoo could change color or display a specific symbol when blood sugar levels reach critical levels, prompting the individual to take necessary action.
Overcoming Challenges
The development of Magic Ink is not without its challenges. One hurdle is the need for a reliable and efficient way to communicate with the tattoo, particularly for medical applications. Researchers are exploring various methods to achieve this, including the use of wireless technology or implantable devices.
Long-Term Vision
McCurdy and Bruns believe that Magic Ink has the potential to revolutionize healthcare by providing continuous monitoring of vital health parameters. They envision a future where tattoos can serve as interfaces between the body and technology, empowering individuals to take proactive control of their health.
Conclusion
Keith “Bang Bang” McCurdy and Dr. Carson Bruns are at the forefront of a remarkable innovation that has the potential to transform the tattoo industry and revolutionize healthcare. Magic Ink, with its ability to be activated or deactivated by light exposure, opens up a world of creative and medical possibilities. As research and development continue, Magic Ink holds the promise of empowering individuals with real-time medical information, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.