Planning to get a tattoo? Don’t, until you’ve read this

Tattoos might have been in vogue over the last few decades but to get inked is not new. The practice of getting a tattoo done has been prevalent since the mid-1800s, either for curative purposes or cultural and religious reasons. With the passage of time, it became more of a style statement, a way to showcase one’s creativity. However, what got ignored was the health implications of getting inked. Here’s a quick guide on why one should be careful while getting a tattoo.

Tattoos and cancer

In the realm of cancer risks, it is worth noting that the black tattoo ink poses a particular concern due to its elevated benzo(a)pyrene content, a substance classified as a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

Health authorities and researchers are closely monitoring the potential health impacts of black tattoo ink, given its widespread usage in the tattoo industry.

Currently, there is a lack of stringent regulations, requirements, or legislation governing tattoo safety. The sterility of tattoo inks and equipment remains a concern, especially with the prevalence of tattoos being applied in informal settings such as roadside stalls and makeshift parlours.

As a result, there has been a rise in reported adverse reactions following tattoo procedures. While these reactions are often treated by healthcare professionals, they remain largely unknown to the general public.

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Tattoo inks, when introduced into the human body, generally do not meet the strict safety standards applicable to pharmaceuticals. These inks comprise pigments, solvents and a range of other compounds. The precise composition of these inks can vary widely, as it is determined by the manufacturing practices of each producer.

Investigations into tattoo inks available in the European market have revealed the presence of harmful substances. Specifically, these include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) found in 43 percent of cases, primary aromatic amines (PAAs) in 14 percent heavy metals in 9 percent, along with preservatives.

Who shouldn’t get a tattoo

If your skin tends to react negatively to specific perfumes, cosmetics, or moisturizers, you should reconsider before deciding to get a tattoo. Allergic reactions to the ink used in tattoos are not uncommon, owing to a common misconception that tattoo ink is simply benign paint.

Contrarily, this ink is comprised of various chemicals and synthetic elements that could potentially provoke irritation in someone’s skin. For those aware of their skin’s sensitivity or prone to allergies, seeking advice from an allergist before proceeding with a tattoo is advisable.

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Individuals with pre-existing skin conditions are strongly advised to seek guidance from a dermatologist to learn about possible complications from tattoos. Moreover, those with chronic illnesses or compromised immune systems should have a discussion with their doctor concerning the risks associated with tattooing.

What to keep in mind before getting a tattoo

Hepatitis poses a significant risk in the context of getting tattoos, primarily due to its transmission through shared needle use. This underscores the necessity of thoroughly vetting your tattoo studio before proceeding with any work.

It’s advisable to make several visits to the establishment to observe their practices. Ensure that all staff members consistently wear gloves and that they use fresh, sterilised needles for each customer. Should you ever observe the reuse of needles across different tattoos or clients, it’s imperative to immediately leave the establishment.

The risk of viral contamination during the tattooing process is often attributed to viral pathogens found in tattoo ink and on tattoo needles.

Earlier, tattoos used to be done for religious reasons | Pexels

Ill effects of getting inked

Skin infections caused by viruses such as the human papilloma virus, herpes simplex virus, and pox viruses (including Molluscum contagiosum, among others) have been documented in relation to tattooing.

There are documented instances in medical literature where individuals have contracted systemic infections such as syphilis, leprosy, tuberculosis, leishmaniasis, endocarditis, sepsis, hepatitis C, hepatitis B, and AIDS (HIV) following tattooing.

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These infections occur most commonly in scenarios where proper aseptic techniques are disregarded, such as during the application of traditional tattoos.

Is it all that bad to get a tattoo

However, when proper hygiene and asepsis protocols are adhered to, including the sterilization of equipment and the use of new needles for each customer, the risk of contracting these infections is considered negligible. Despite these precautions, there have been reports indicating that these infections might still occur and prove to be more severe or even fatal for individuals with compromised immune systems.

Over time, the complications associated with tattoos have evolved due to advancements in tattoo inks and application methods. The transition from metal salts to azo dyes for tattoo pigments, along with tattoo artists’ increased focus on sanitary practices, has notably decreased the incidence of skin reactions.

Nowadays, the most frequently observed complications from tattooing are hypersensitivity reactions, or allergies, to the pigments used in tattoos.

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Can effects of getting a tattoo be prevented

Regrettably, predicting and preventing these reactions is currently unfeasible. Moreover, the carcinogenic potential of azo dyes remains uncertain at present. Further clinical research is required to deepen our understanding of tattooing’s complications and enhance our knowledge on the subject.

Heightening awareness about the intricacies and potential complications of tattooing is crucial, particularly for tattoo artists. It’s essential for artists to understand the importance of recognising cases that may necessitate a consultation with a healthcare provider prior to tattooing.

Treatment for illnesses due to tattoos

Addressing complications from tattoos requires the expertise of a dermatologist. This specialised area of care involves a range of treatments, including local destructive methods like dermabrasion, chemical methods, cryotherapy, electrosurgery, and laser ablation.

Other options may involve surgically removing the affected area or employing Q-switched laser therapy to break down the pigment.