Are you thinking of getting inked? A recent study from the Food and Drug Administration has revealed that about 35% of tattoo and permanent makeup inks sold in the United States are contaminated with bacteria, posing significant health risks.
Their evidence, published on Tuesday in the journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology, represents the latest series of FDA tests identifying contamination in body inks available in the US market.
Researchers tested 75 commercial tattoo inks from 14 manufacturers in search of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, which reportedly develop in low-oxygen environments. Of the collected samples, nine presented bacterial growth, while 17 were contaminated with microorganisms.
It remains unclear which specific brands were identified as contaminated. Though the FDA has issued warnings on the risks of contamination for years, there has yet to be an indication if the FDA will take any action against the companies producing these potentially infectious products.
Dr. Jane Caldwell, a board-certified dermatologist, explains the potential health risks associated with bacterial contamination in tattoo inks.
“Immediately after getting a tattoo, bacterial contamination can lead to local infections that may require antibiotics or even surgical intervention. In the long term, there is a risk of chronic infections, scarring, keloids and potential spread of the infection to other parts of the body.”
The study results come after previous research revealed that 83% of tattoo inks contain substances not listed on their labels, such as various pigments or undisclosed additives. Additionally, a separate study has suggested a potential association between tattoos and lymphoma, a form of blood cancer.
Aries Monroe, a tattoo artist of 14 years and local shop owner of Empire Tattooz, says his preferred ink brands, Starbrite and Dynamic, never disappoint and believes certain unauthentic ink companies are unreliable.
“I’ve never had anybody come back with an infection on a tattoo unless they did something wrong that they weren’t supposed to do afterward. So, honestly, most of those brands that are giving people infections are likely these Amazon-bought tattoo inks or people going to buy tattoo kits as amateurs do,” Monroe said.
“They start experimenting on their friends. And the cheap ink they send with it, they don’t have any name brands, but it’s some ink that somebody made from their house. They actually LLC it and start selling it.”
Although Monroe’s claims aren’t proven by the FDA, there has been a noticeable increase in online tattoo kit sales since the pandemic, and it is projected to rise in upcoming years.
Tattoos have also become more prevalent in recent years. According to the Pew Research Center, 21% of US adults said they have a tattoo in 2012, while 32% of surveyed adults have a tattoo in 2023, including 22% who claim to have more than one.
Nathan Forbes, a tattoo lover attending Florida A&M University, says he’s not sure this new study will change his mind.
“I mean, I’ve added so many over the years and in many ways, they represent me,” Forbes said. “The study is scary I can’t lie, but I doubt I’ll stop getting tattoos. I will be more cautious.”
Proper aftercare is essential to reduce the risk of infection. Dr. Caldwell advises individuals with a fresh tattoo to keep the tattooed area clean and dry, wash the area gently with antibacterial soap and water, apply a thin layer of a recommended ointment or moisturizer such as Aquaphor, avoid submerging the tattoo in water, avoid direct sunlight until it is fully healed and refrain from picking or scratching the tattooed area.
In addition, Monroe advises keeping animals away from fresh tattoos and keeping Saniderm bandages on for as long as the tattoo artist recommends.
If an infection is suspected, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Health officials say signs of infection include increased redness, hives, swelling, warmth, pus discharge, pain, and fever. Early intervention with appropriate antibiotics or other treatments can prevent more severe complications.