[Avodah] Removable Tattoos

[Moshe Y. Gluck]

In tandem with the ongoing Areivim discussion of body modification and
piercing, I was wondering about the Halachic status of a new method of
tattooing. Basically, the ink as inserted under the skin is sealed in
translucent polymer beads. The colors show through the beads, effecting the
tattoo appearance. When exposed to certain (laser) wavelengths of light, the
polymer casing disintegrates, and the ink - which by itself is not permanent
- is absorbed by the body. The website is
http://www.freedom2ink.com/technology.asp.
So, here we have ink which is nonpermanent, and when encased in the polymer
- which is colorless - has a permanent effect, yet is intended to be
nonpermanent and easily removed. What sayeth the Chevrah?

KT,
MYG