You may want to rethink getting inked. Recent research published Tuesday reveals that about 35% of tattoo or permanent makeup inks sold in the US are contaminated with bacteria.
Researchers tested 75 tattoo inks from 14 manufacturers for the presence of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. This study marks the first investigation into anaerobic bacteria—those thriving in low-oxygen environments—in commercial tattoo inks.
“Both types of bacteria, those needing oxygen (aerobic) and those not needing oxygen (anaerobic), can contaminate the inks,” said Seong-Jae (Peter) Kim, a microbiologist with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Arkansas.
Despite the pigments used in tattoo inks being subject to FDA approval as color additives, the agency has not historically regulated them. State and local jurisdictions oversee tattooing practices. The FDA has noted reports of infections from contaminated tattoo inks over the years, even issuing a safety alert in 2019 after identifying six inks contaminated with bacteria.
Infections can result in rashes, lesions, or permanent scarring. Last year, the FDA issued draft guidance to help manufacturers and distributors recognize potential contamination from bacteria, mold, or other microorganisms.
Kim’s research indicated “no clear link between a product label claiming sterility and the actual absence of bacterial contamination.” He also noted, “The rising popularity of tattooing in recent years has coincided with an increase in tattoo-related complications or adverse reactions.”
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