Does Tattoo Ink Cause Cancer?
⏱ 3 Min Read
In the article, we examine the safety of tattoo inks, exploring their ingredients, risks, and evolving standards in the industry.
Are Tattoo Inks Safe? Breaking Down the Risks and Recent Studies
A recent study released in August 2022 found that some ingredients in tattoo ink can be considered harmful. Their results show that tattoo ink - under the right circumstances - can be considered carcinogenic. This has sparked renewed interest in the tattoo industry regarding the composition and safety of tattoo inks.
IS TATTOO INK DANGEROUS?
Despite common misconceptions, there is no specialised ink made exclusively for tattoos. Popular brands such as Permablend provide sterile products designed to minimise infection risk, but the pigments in these inks are often the same ones used in paints and textiles.
Some pigments contain heavy metals and other substances that are not ideal for the human body. However, the small amounts present in tattoo ink have not been definitively linked to causing cancer or other health issues.
Lasering Certain Inks can Produce Carcinogens
According to Dr. John Swierk, the lead scientist of the study, the primary risks associated with tattoo ink come from ink particle breakdown, which can occur during laser removal.
When inks containing azo pigments degrade, they release nitrogen-based compounds that may increase cancer risk. This is especially relevant in light of the UK’s recent ban on certain inks with azo pigments, prompting scrutiny in countries like the U.S. and Canada.
Which Ink Colors Are Most Hazardous?
Azo pigments are common in many tattoo inks, though black and red inks usually don’t contain them. However, black inks are not entirely risk-free. Studies show that 83% of tested black inks contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are also known carcinogens.
Small Ink Particles a HIGHER Risk
The size of tattoo ink particles also plays a critical role in health outcomes. Normally, tattoo ink particles are large. This is important because the body’s natural defence systems cannot break down those large particles effectively, which allows the tattoo to stay in place with minimal fading.
Smaller particles, however, can penetrate cell membranes, potentially causing cell damage. Under certain conditions, this damage could increase the risk of cancer.
Ink in the Lymph Nodes
Tattoo ink particles are recognised by the body as "foreign invaders" that must be eliminated. Although these particles are too large for the body to break down easily, it attempts to remove them through its natural filtration system, the lymphatic system.
The body attempts to flush out tattoo ink particles may not be 100% effective which can lead to ink accumulation in these areas. This may inadvertently expose surrounding tissues to cancer-causing material.
Changes in Ink Regulations and Safety Measures
In response to safety concerns, the UK recently banned certain inks containing azo pigments, allowing artists a grace period to switch to safer alternatives. It is anticipated that similar regulations will emerge in other countries.
This shift has prompted ink manufacturers to reformulate their products, use safer materials, and improve labelling transparency. However, these safer inks often come with higher production costs, leading to price increases for artists and clients alike.
Implications for Tattoo Artists
As of now, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not implemented restrictions on tattoo inks. However, tattoo artists may need to adapt by choosing safer inks and potentially raising prices to account for the higher costs. These changes aim to make the art of tattooing a safer practice for both artists and clients.
The Future of Tattoo Ink Safety
Ongoing research and regulatory developments emphasise the need to balance artistic expression with health considerations. As tattooing becomes safer through scientific advancements and improved regulations, the industry may evolve—impacting both practices and costs. One key area for future development is the creation of photo-thermal safe pigments, designed to reduce risks when tattoos are treated with laser technology. By staying informed and prioritising safety, tattoo artists and clients can help shape a healthier and more sustainable approach to body art.
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As the demand for tattoo removal and modification rises, so too does the need to comprehend the photosensitivity of cosmetic tattoo pigments when exposed to laser energy.