90% of US Tattoo Inks have Undisclosed Ingredients

Researchers examining tattoo inks from both prominent and lesser-known American manufacturers have discovered that 90% of them contain undisclosed ingredients, some of which have known health implications. These findings underscore the necessity for stricter manufacturing regulations concerning tattoo inks.

However, tattoos serve as expressions of self, rebellion, familial connections, cultural traditions, and sometimes even spontaneous decisions made under the influence of alcohol. Despite the motivation behind getting a tattoo, individuals expect the ink used to be safe.

Insights from a Study on Tattoo Inks

In fact, a study conducted by researchers at Binghamton University (Bing U), New York, has revealed that this assumption may not hold true. After analyzing 54 tattoo inks sourced from prominent US brands to smaller manufacturers, they found that 90% exhibited significant discrepancies in labeling, particularly concerning undisclosed additives and pigments. Here are the key findings from the study:

• Polyethylene glycol (PEG) emerged as the most prevalent undisclosed additive. Although commonly utilized to address constipation, extended exposure to PEG may result in adverse consequences, such as kidney or heart failure.
• Propylene glycol, the second most commonly found additive, has associations with skin irritation and allergic reactions.
• Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), a food preservative, has the potential to interfere with the endocrine system, influencing testosterone levels and compromising sperm quality. Moreover, it could lead to liver enlargement, kidney impairment, and inflammation of the lungs.
• Hexamethylenetetramine, a frequently prescribed antibiotic for urinary tract infections.
• 2-phenoxyethanol, an antimicrobial agent, has been associated with isolated incidents of contact dermatitis and hives upon exposure. The US FDA has cautioned against potential nervous system issues and diarrhea in nursing infants exposed to 2-phenoxyethanol through maternal contact.
• 1-butanol, an alcohol frequently employed as a solvent and fuel, has been documented to cause irritation to the eyes, lungs, and skin with prolonged or repeated exposure.

Labeling Accuracy Across Tattoo Ink Manufacturers

The study analyzed inks from various brands, including Intenze, Dynamic, Solid Ink, Starbrite, World Famous, Mom’s Ink, Solong, One Tattoo World, and Raw Ink. Among these, only Dynamic had accurate labeling for all pigments.

The researchers highlight that the undisclosed substances detected in tattoo inks were present at concentrations of 2,000 parts per million (ppm) or higher, deemed as a significant concentration. There might be other constituents present at levels too low to detect but are nonetheless noteworthy, underscoring the importance of stringent manufacturing oversight. In contrast to the United States, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) enforces more rigorous regulations on tattoo inks available in the European market.

“We hope that manufacturers will seize this opportunity to reassess their processes, while artists and clients use it as a catalyst to advocate for improved labeling and manufacturing,” stated John Swierk, the corresponding author of the study.

Uncertainty Surrounding the Addition of Undisclosed Substances in Tattoo Inks

The researchers couldn’t determine whether manufacturers intentionally added undisclosed substances or received incorrectly labeled or contaminated materials. Additionally, it’s common for multiple ink manufacturers to share the same owner, raising concerns that labeling issues may extend to inks not analyzed in the study.

Before 2022, the FDA categorized tattoo inks as ‘cosmetic,’ leaving them unregulated. However, Congress passed the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MoCRA) that year, initiating the first regulation of tattoo inks.

“The FDA is still in the process of determining the implications of this regulation, and we believe this study will influence the discussions surrounding MoCRA,” said Swierk. “This is also the first study to explicitly examine inks sold in the United States and is likely the most comprehensive, as it assesses both pigments, which typically remain in the skin, and the carrier package in which the pigment is suspended.”

The researchers aim to empower tattoo artists and their clients through their research.

“Our objective in much of this research is to empower artists and their clients,” Swierk emphasized. “Tattoo artists are dedicated professionals committed to their craft, striving for the best possible outcomes for their clients. We aim to shed light on manufacturing and labeling deficiencies.”

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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