Tattooing is an age old practice which has been going on for thousands of years, as the trend has been growing among youngsters who opt for getting texts, images or abstract designs inked on their skin. But is having ink in your skin as safe as it seems?
Researchers suggest that while people are increasingly getting tattooed, the risks involved include bacterial infections, if hygiene is not kept in mind during the process. The European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) report said that while infections occur in 5% cases, the risk of skin cancer cannot be ruled out as well.
The report found that more than 100 colourants and 100 additives are used in tattoos and the pigments used can contain impurities, since they are not specifically made for tattoos.
More than 80% colourants used in tattoos contain a pigment called azo-pigments which can release carcinogenic aromatic amines in the skin. The adverse effects are not only caused by application of tattoos, but are also reported during removal.
15% of patients who undergo laser therapy for removal of tattoos, encountered skin pigmentation disorders, while other effects included acute allergy and delayed hypersensitivity.
