New research conducted by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests that potential risks associated with tattoo and permanent makeup inks may give pause to those considering body art. The study revealed that even ink bottles labeled as sterile could harbor millions of harmful bacteria.
Seong-Jae (Peter) Kim, a microbiologist at the FDA’s National Center for Toxicological Research, highlighted the findings, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring of these products to ensure they are free from microbial contamination. The study, published in the journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology on July 2, raised concerns about the safety of tattoo inks, which are injected deep into the skin, creating an environment where bacteria can thrive and potentially cause infections.
Linda Katz, director of the FDA’s Office of Cosmetics and Colors and a coauthor of the study, explained that contaminated ink can introduce pathogens into the body, leading to serious health issues such as infections that spread through the bloodstream and lymphatic systems. These infections could result in severe complications like endocarditis or septic shock, which may be life-threatening if not promptly treated.
Symptoms of infections caused by tainted tattoo ink include rashes at the injection site, impetigo, erysipelas, and cellulitis. Katz also pointed out that individuals with multiple or large tattoos face increased risks due to greater exposure to potentially harmful microorganisms. She highlighted an elevated risk associated with permanent makeup, especially around the eyes, where infection could threaten eye health.
The findings of the study, though alarming, were not unexpected to experts like John Swierk from Binghamton University, who has studied tattoo ink contamination. Swierk emphasized the lack of standardized methods for sterilizing inks within the industry, underscoring the urgent need for improved manufacturing practices.
Responding to these concerns, Selina Medina, director of research at the Alliance of Professional Tattooists, noted efforts within the tattoo industry to enhance safety measures. Medina cited advancements in sterilization technologies and quality control processes aimed at reducing the risk of contamination, such as the use of clean rooms.
The study analyzed 75 samples of tattoo and permanent makeup ink from various manufacturers across the United States, finding bacterial contamination in 35% of the samples, despite some being labeled as sterile. While most samples showed low bacterial counts, some contained levels as high as 100,000 bacteria per gram.
Infectious disease expert Dr. Robert Schooley from the University of California, San Diego, stressed that any bacteria in tattoo inks intended for skin injection should ideally be absent. He also highlighted the potential transmission of viral infections like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV through contaminated inks.
To protect consumers, Medina recommended that tattoo artists maintain transparency with clients about safety practices, including conducting their own or requiring supplier testing for microbial contamination. Artists can also employ autoclaves to sterilize inks before use and take precautions to prevent contamination during tattoo sessions.
Looking ahead, experts advocate for stricter regulations on tattoo ink manufacturing, as outlined in the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022. While regulatory efforts are underway, including FDA draft guidance released in June 2023, full implementation is still pending, focusing on improving manufacturing standards and ensuring product safety.
The FDA’s study serves as a stark reminder of the potential health risks associated with tattoo and permanent makeup inks, prompting calls for heightened vigilance and regulatory oversight to safeguard consumer health.