Report finds 20% of tattoo inks contain ‘negative list’ chemicals, although little is known about long-term effects
An analysis of tattoo and permanent makeup inks has found aromatic hydrocarbons, amines and heavy metals – all potentially hazardous compounds the EU wants controlled more tightly. The report, commissioned by the European Chemicals Agency (Echa), proposes concentration limits on ingredients such as azo pigments, which might release carcinogenic aromatic amines once in the body.