Moseman K, Ahmed A, Ruhren A, Swierk JR. What's in My Ink: An Analysis of Commercial Tattoo Ink on the US Market.
Anal Chem 2024;
96:3906-3913. [PMID:
38387033 PMCID:
PMC11450547 DOI:
10.1021/acs.analchem.3c05687]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
As tattoos continue to rise in popularity, the demand for tattoo ink has surged. Historically, tattoo inks have been underregulated in the US market. This study analyzes inks from nine different brands that are common in the United States, ranging from major to small manufacturers. Out of 54 inks, 45 contained unlisted additives and/or pigments. Major, unlisted adulterants include poly(ethylene glycol), propylene glycol, and higher alkanes. Many of the adulterants pose possible allergic or other health risks. Taken together, the results from this study highlight the potential for a significant issue around inaccurate tattoo ink labeling in the United States.
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