[Avodah] Removable Tattoos

[Arie Folger]

R Moshe Y. Gluck wrote:
> 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?

IIUC, this is still a tattoo. It is permanent, if left alone. It can be easily 
operated away, but in and of itself, the tattoo will not disappear. Writing 
with such kind of ink would, IMO, be a biblical prohibition on Shabbat.

KT,

-- 
Arie Folger
http://www.ariefolger.googlepages.com