The Risk of Tattoo Ink Infections

According to the FDA, routine inspections have revealed at least two types of tattoo inks that contain bacteria harmful to humans. The presence of these pathogens can lead to severe infections when the ink is injected into the skin.

One notable bacterium identified is Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which poses an elevated risk, particularly when the skin barrier is compromised during the tattooing process.

Symptoms and Consequences

The symptoms of tattoo-related infections can manifest as rashes or lesions, specifically red papules in the tattooed area. In some cases, these infections may lead to permanent scarring or other long-term health issues.

“Infections can be difficult to identify since their symptoms can mimic those of other conditions, such as allergic reactions, leading to potential misdiagnosis,” the FDA warns.

Contaminated Products Identified

The FDA has specified two contaminated products for public awareness:

• Sacred Tattoo Ink, Raven Black; CI# 77266; Lot#: RB0624; Best Before: June 28, 2027
• Sacred Tattoo Ink, Sunny Daze; CI# 21095; Lot#: SD1124; Best Before: Nov 1, 2027

Recommendations for Consumers

The FDA advises consumers to proactively inquire about the inks used by tattoo artists and to avoid the products listed above to mitigate the risk of infections.

Should any adverse health effects arise from tattooing, both healthcare professionals and consumers are encouraged to report these incidents via the FDA’s SmartHub.