Tattooing is a popular form of body art that has been around for thousands of years, but it's only in recent years that the safety of tattoo inks has become a major concern. With the rise of health issues related to tattooing, the European Union has been taking steps to regulate the use of tattoo inks and ensure that they are safe for human use.
Currently, the EU has strict laws governing the use of tattoo inks, which fall under the Regulation on Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH). This regulation requires manufacturers and importers of tattoo inks to register the chemicals used in their products and demonstrate their safety before they can be sold in the EU market.
The EU has also set strict limits on the use of certain chemicals in tattoo inks, such as heavy metals and aromatic amines. Heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium, and mercury, can be toxic to the human body and are strictly prohibited in tattoo inks. Aromatic amines, which are often used as pigments in tattoo inks, have been linked to cancer and are also banned in the EU.
In addition to these regulations, the EU has established a list of approved colorants for use in tattoo inks. This list includes only those colorants that have been thoroughly tested and are considered safe for use in tattoos.
While these regulations have been effective in improving the safety of tattoo inks, there are still concerns about the use of certain chemicals and the long-term effects of tattoos on the human body. The EU continues to monitor the use of tattoo inks and update their regulations as new information becomes available.
If you're a tattoo artist or someone considering getting a tattoo, it's important to do your research and choose a reputable artist who uses safe and approved tattoo inks. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your tattoo experience is both beautiful and safe.
While you're here learning about Tattoo and ink safety, consider reading this article on the Correct Speed for your Tattoo Machine.