Are Tattoo Inks Misleading Consumers?
Examine Reveals Alarming Findings About Tattoo Inks Bought within the US
Are you contemplating getting a brand new tattoo? You may need to assume twice earlier than going below the needle. A latest research analyzing 54 tattoo inks bought within the US has revealed some stunning data – 45 of them include unlisted elements that might pose critical well being dangers.
The unlisted compounds present in these tattoo inks embrace propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, and 2-phenoxyethanol, which have the potential to trigger allergic reactions and different antagonistic well being results. John Swierk, a chemistry professor at Binghamton College and one of many research’s authors, emphasizes that this discrepancy in labeling accuracy throughout the US tattoo ink market might put individuals in danger.
Tattoo inks, that are primarily pigments suspended in a service bundle, can even include components like glycerin to regulate viscosity. Nonetheless, there isn’t any assure that the elements listed on the label precisely mirror what’s truly within the ink. Traditionally, tattoo inks had been unregulated within the US till the passage of the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act in 2022, which granted the FDA authority to recall ink merchandise, require reporting for antagonistic results, and mandate up to date ingredient labeling yearly.
For the primary time, the FDA is now obligated to analyze tattoo inks relating to their labeling accuracy. To realize a greater understanding of what is in these tattoo inks, Swierk and his workforce analyzed ink samples from 9 producers believed to be consultant of the US market. The outcomes revealed main labeling discrepancies for all however one firm, with unlisted elements equivalent to polyethylene glycol and propylene glycol elevating issues as a consequence of their potential well being dangers.
Following the publication of the research, the Alliance of Skilled Tattooists (APT) launched a response video addressing the findings. Whereas acknowledging the particular well being concerns that include tattooing, APT board member Ben Shaw reassured that there’s at present no well being disaster related to having tattoos. Nonetheless, Swierk factors out that prior analysis has discovered pigment particles in lymph nodes, elevating questions in regards to the long-term results of tattoo inks on the physique.
Regardless of these issues, Swierk emphasizes that the research will not be meant to discourage individuals from getting tattoos however to advocate for safer practices within the tattoo trade. “We simply assume that you’ve a proper to know what you are placing in your pores and skin,” he says.
So, earlier than you determine to get that fashionable tattoo, be sure to’re well-informed in regards to the dangers and take obligatory precautions to make sure your security. Keep tuned to Magnificence Flash Information for extra updates on well being and sweetness developments!
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