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Tattoos and the use of permanent makeup (PMU) have exploded in popularity. A Pew Research Center survey found that 40% of young adults have tattoos. Unfortunately, the incidence of ink-related infections and other health risks and side-effects are keeping up with the growth in popularity. Let’s examine the health hazards of tattooing and PMU so you can make an informed decision about risk management before getting inked.
A study published in the journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology found that almost a third of ink samples in bottles from commercial sources were contaminated with bacteria. This is consistent with previous studies showing that tattoo and PMU inks are frequently contaminated with infection-producing microorganisms.
The team of scientists at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s National Center for Toxicological Research tested 75 ink samples. In 26 of the samples, they found 34 types of bacteria, 19 of which can cause wound infections in humans. An infection can also occur if nonsterile water is mixed with the ink before injection.
The tattoo process works by causing trauma to your skin, including both the surface (epidermal) and the deeper (dermal) layers of skin. The greatest risk for skin infection from a tattoo is within the first two weeks after the procedure. Symptoms include swelling, redness, itchiness, and discharge. If the infection spreads, you can have other symptoms, such as a fever. In severe cases, infections can be chronic (long-term).
To play devil’s advocate, let’s say your tattooist is using three colors of ink in three different bottles. Overall, the study found that, on average, about one in three bottles of ink contain bacteria. That doesn’t necessarily mean that one of your three bottles is contaminated, but is that a risk you want to take?
The scientists also reported finding that bottles with claims on the labels that the products were sterile did not provide assurance that the inks were safe. Numerous bottles of so-called “sterile” products also contained bacteria.
The FDA has strict standards about labeling inks to prevent cross-contamination, but you are still vulnerable to infections if these practices are not followed. One article suggests that you ask your provider whether the ink is completely sterile. However, I wonder how many providers have ever said “No.” It is possible that the tattooist responsible for the procedures does not know that their inks are contaminated.
Keloids
Keloids are overgrown scars of tough, lumpy tissue that can become very large. Some just don’t quit enlarging. They may require surgical removal. Even when a fresh tattoo heals well, attempts to remove tattoos later on can trigger keloid formation.
Allergies
People can develop allergies to the inks used for tattoos and PMU, especially if they contain plastics. According to Mayo Clinic, red, blue, yellow, and green inks are more allergenic than other pigments. The needling process alone does not trigger allergies. Symptoms include hives, swelling, and severe itching.
Needle sterilization
The use of sterile needles is required by most states, but laws vary. Contaminated needles can transmit HIV, hepatitis C, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
What does all this mean for you? Your most important tool for avoiding the hazards associated with tattoos and PMU is your research. To make the right decision, check out several service sites, the artists’ credentials, and the shops’ operating procedures.
