Harmon Seaver[SMTP:hseaver@harmon.arrowhead.lib.mn.us] wrote: Peter Trei wrote:

...

Also, if you want to get high tech, use a fluorescent dye mixed with DMSO. It'll penetrate deep into the skin, and be visible under UV (no cosmetic objections). I suspect it'd take weeks to wear off.

Can't imagine mixing dye with DMSO -- if you've ever played with DMSO, you'd know that putting a little anywhere on your skin brings it into your mouth, and everywhere else in your body, within seconds. You can taste it almost immediately, and any chemical combined with it is also carried throughout the body, which is often not a good idea. But the dye-dipped finger is a good idea, which would also negate the need for those little "I voted" badges.

Harmon Seaver, MLIS Systems Librarian

Good point - I've played with dyes (histology work) but not DMSO. I guess your entire body would glow under UV :-) Actually UV flourescent dyes might not be so good, since an application of SP50 sunscreen might stop them from showing. But I have no doubt that a semi-permanent dye mark can be engineered. It only has to resist removal for about 12 hours. Peter