About one-third of Americans have at least one tattoo, reports the market research firmIpsos.
Today, this practice is no longer taboo.
“Peopleget tattoosfor many reasons.
Sometimes to commemorate a loved one.
To mark an important journey or event in their life.
To cover scars from accidents.
Surprisingly, few people know what tattoo ink is made out of.
Tattoo ink goes deep into the skin, which allows it to last over the years.
Some of it may reach the bloodstream and make its way to the lymph nodes.
The remaining pigment is gradually decomposed over time in response to sunlight.
As you would expect, tattoo inks vary in quality.
Some brands are 100% organic, while others may contain heavy metals and chemicals.
But these products are not regulated by theFDA, and little is known about their safety.
With that being said, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients in tattoo inks.
About 60% of pigments may release aromatic amines, a class of compounds with carcinogenic effects.
Others had traces of heavy metals and contaminants.
However, these potential side effects have not been observed in humans.
Tattoo ink, especially red pigments, may contain mercury, iron, cadmium, and other toxic metals.
Brown ink, on the other hand, contains a mixture of clay and iron oxide.
But most inks produced in the U.S. are poorly regulated.
Is tattoo ink safe?
Now that you know what tattoo ink is made out of, you may have concerns about its safety.
But there’s no reason to panic.
“It may pose no risk,” she added.
For example, you may be allergic to a chemical compound, colorant, or carrier in the ink.
Red and black pigments pose the highest risks, warns Helmenstine.
Organic pigments may seem safer, but they can still release carcinogenic compounds as they degrade.
The side effects can occur years after you get a tattoo.
