New technique with anesthesiologists allows for long tattoos without pain in Puerto Rico

San Juan.– An innovative technique that incorporates certified anesthesiologists into the tattooing process is transforming the experience of those who want large and complex pieces in Puerto Rico. It is conscious sedation, a method that allows clients to relax or even sleep during long sessions, significantly reducing pain without losing the ability to respond to stimuli. Tattoo artist Juan Salgado, with over 20 years of experience in the industry, became the first on the island to offer this service formally. According to what he explained to El Vocero, pain has historically been one of the biggest obstacles in the tattoo world, both for clients and artists.

"Pain has always been the biggest obstacle in the world of tattooing. The client suffers it and the artist has to work with a body under stress and in constant movement," said Salgado.

Conscious sedation, widely used in medical procedures and already recognized in the United States and Europe, allows the client to remain in a state similar to sleep, but conscious.

“It's similar to a dream; I can wake you up at any moment and ask you if you're okay, and you can answer,” explained the artist.

Salgado clarified that this technique does not seek to replace traditional tattooing, but rather to offer an alternative for specific cases, such as extensive tattoos, people with a phobia of pain, or clients who wish to complete large pieces in fewer sessions.

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Among the benefits, the artist highlighted a better skin response during the process and a more favorable recovery. “By not battling with the pain, the body doesn't go into stress, it doesn't bleed as much, defenses are not exhausted and that helps for a better healing”, he/she pointed out.

The technique also favors the tattoo artist, who can work with greater precision and speed. "Finally, we have a canvas that isn't fighting against us. Pieces that used to take a year or more can now be completed in two visits," he added. The incorporation of conscious sedation marks a new chapter in the tattoo industry in Puerto Rico, expanding artistic possibilities and reducing barriers for those who want to wear large-scale works on their skin without the fear of pain.

Source: El Vocero