People with tattoos drink more than the tattoo-less, according to a new study from France.

Nearly 3,000 people leaving bars on a Saturday night were asked if they would take a breathalyzer test. Of those who agreed to take it, the study found that people with tattoos had consumed more alcohol than those without tattoos.

Researchers suggest that tattoos and piercings are potential “markers” of drinking, and that parents, educators and physicians might consider using them to initiate a conversation about alcohol consumption. That said, researchers said those with tattoos should not be stereotyped as heavy drinkers.

Just a heads up: Previous studies have shown those with only one tattoo have similar alcohol consumption habits as those with no tattoos. Meanwhile those with seven or more tattoos are more likely to fall into the “high risk” group.

While this study is interesting, I think a more compelling study would be to find out if the tattooed have a riskier palate than the tattoo-less when it comes to wine. Are they more adventurous, global sippers, for instance?

While I’m waiting for that study to come out, I’m going to start counting tattoos to track consumption habits.

How many tattoos do you have?