Step 1: Understand the role of different cells in the skin.
Tattoo ink is placed in the dermis layer of the skin. Once ink is introduced, certain cells are involved in retaining and storing it for long periods.
Macrophages: These are immune cells that play a role in phagocytosis (engulfing and absorbing foreign substances). After getting tattooed, macrophages absorb and retain the tattoo ink particles within their cytoplasm, ensuring the tattoo remains visible for long periods.
Melanocytes: These cells produce melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color, but they are not involved in retaining tattoo ink.
Keratinocytes: These cells form the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis) and are not involved in retaining tattoo ink. They help with skin regeneration.
Lymphocytes: These immune cells play a key role in the immune response but do not retain tattoo ink.
Step 2: Conclusion.
The correct cell type responsible for retaining tattoo ink is Macrophages.