Overview
When it comes to tattoos, you can choose from all the colors of the rainbow or pick a shade that defies description. Whether you prefer the subdued pastels of a Southwestern landscape, the bold red of a tropical flower or glow-in-the dark orange, tattoo artists likely have an ink that suits your style. Tattoos are centuries-old expressions of art, but the modern explosion of color and the compounds used to create so many options worry some health professionals.
Tattoo Ink Safety
Pigment is the substance that gives tattoo ink its color. Ink used in tattoo parlors might contain the same industrial-grade chemical compounds or heavy metals used for automobile paint or printer’s ink. Because suppliers are not required to list ingredients in their ink, even the tattooist might not have any idea what she is injecting under your skin. The responsibility of regulating these pigments lies with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The FDA, however, notes previous studies focused on topical application of dyes, such as those found in eye shadow or lipstick, and so it offers no safety guidelines or protocols regarding tattoo ink.
Consider it Permanent
Because the top layer of your skin naturally sloughs off and replaces itself throughout your lifetime, injecting tattoo ink deep into the dermis or second, more stable layer of skin helps keep the tattoo in place, the colors vibrant and the design crisp. This practice also makes the tattoo essentially permanent. Procedures for removing your tattoo do exist, including laser surgery, excision and dermabrasion. However, each option is expensive and might require several painful treatments that can leave you with scars or less than adequate removal, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Allergic Reactions
While allergic reactions appear to be rare, the nature of tattoo ink creates significant issues for those who do react because it is difficult to remove once injected. Red ink appears to cause the most problems, according to the FDA. The reaction can occur soon after you receive the tattoo or years later as your metabolism begins to break down the dye. Symptoms usually present as an itchy red rash in the area of the tattoo.
Risks Still Under Evaluation
As of 2010, studies were under way through the National Center for Toxicological Research to evaluate the overall safety of chemicals found in tattoo ink and how the body metabolizes these compounds, according to the FDA. Previous studies have noted that pigments from tattoo ink can migrate to lymph nodes, which are associated with the body’s immune system. Scientists at NCTR hope to discover whether this process results in any long-term health consequences.
Warning
Any procedure like tattooing, which breaks the skin, carries risk of infection. You can help reduce these risks by making sure the tattoo studio is clean, does not share ink from one client to the next and uses disposable needles and gloves. After the procedure, follow directions for keeping the site clean and contact your physician if you notice symptoms of infection, which can include excessive redness, swelling or unusual drainage.
About this Author
Freelancing for 20 years, S.G. King previously owned a medical transcription service and created a niche in medical writing by working with physicians on research publications, patient information handouts and practice guidelines. Her personal experience with heart disease, diabetes, obesity and menopause gives her insight from the patient perspective in tackling health issues. She has a bachelor’s degree in communication.
