From the Guidelines
Tattoos do not directly cause cancer, but certain tattoo inks may contain potentially carcinogenic chemicals that could pose a risk over a lifetime of exposure. The current evidence suggests that while tattoo pigments may contain metals that are emerging as human carcinogens, the concentration of these metals in tattoo ink is low, and the risk is modified by various factors such as bioavailability, cellular uptake, and genetic variance 1. Some studies have raised concerns about the potential toxicity of certain tattoo inks, but there is no conclusive evidence to establish a direct link between getting tattoos and developing cancer. Key points to consider include:
- The body's immune system typically encapsulates tattoo ink particles, limiting their interaction with surrounding tissues
- Rare allergic reactions, infections, or skin irritations can occur from tattoos, but these complications are not cancerous
- The FDA regulates tattoo inks as cosmetics but doesn't approve specific pigments for injection into skin
- Choosing a reputable, licensed tattoo parlor that follows proper sterilization procedures can help minimize any potential health risks. It's essential to weigh the potential risks and benefits and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe tattooing experience, as the long-term effects of tattoo ink exposure are not yet fully understood, as noted in a study on adolescent and young adult tattooing, piercing, and scarification 1.
From the Research
Tattooing and Cancer Risk
- There is no well-defined association between cancer and tattoos, as stated in the study 2.
- Adverse reactions to tattoos can be immediate, delayed, or long-term, and may result in complications such as fibrosis, granulomatous changes, systemic inflammation, and sometimes malignant diseases like lymphoma, according to the study 3.
- However, it is essential to note that the safety of people getting tattoos primarily depends on the quality of tattooing products, and there is a need to create a general regulatory framework, as mentioned in the study 3.
Tattoo Inks and Potential Health Risks
- Common tattoo inks may contain heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and primary aromatic amines, which can be toxic if exceeding permissible limits, as stated in the study 3.
- The injected pigment is internalised by neutrophils, fibroblasts, and macrophages or dendritic cells, and about 60-90 % of the pigment is then transported to the lymph nodes via the lymphatic system and to other organs, such as the liver, spleen, and lung, through blood, according to the study 3.
- Red ink is associated more frequently with long-term reactions, including granulomatous and pseudolymphomatous phenomena or morphea-like lesions and vasculitis, as mentioned in the study 2.
Public Awareness and Education
- A study found that more than 50 percent of the answers from both tattooed and non-tattooed subjects were incorrect regarding medical risks and complications of tattoos, highlighting the need for public education, as stated in the study 4.
- Educating the public on the medical risks of tattoos might assist individuals in making more optimally informed decisions regarding whether to get a tattoo, according to the study 4.
- The emergence of "vegan tattoos" has ushered in a new era of potential complications, and there is a need for Federal reporting and regulation, as mentioned in the study 5.