Bloodline brand Tattoo Pigments recalled due to potential microbial contamination.
Nevada-based tattoo ink manufacturer Sierra Stain has recalled three of its 'Bloodline' products after tests found they contained high concentrations of bacteria that could potentially "present a health concern to consumers", according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
They're removing pigments Blue 15:3 and Green 7, which will destroy most artists' palettes. These two pigments make up almost 70% of tattoo and permanent makeup inks. It'll affect blues and greens, reds, purples, and yellows as well as skin tones and components for a white tattoo.
- Red Ink: Often contains mercury sulfide or cadmium, which can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation. - Yellow Ink: May contain cadmium, which is toxic. - Black Ink: Sometimes contains carbon black or other additives that can lead to reactions, especially if they are not high-quality pigments.
An example of a tattoo ink risk is that some reds contain mercury. Some reds can also contain other sources of color, such as iron oxide. While red causes the most problems, most other colors of standard tattoo ink are also derived from heavy metals. Tattoo inks are under the governance of the USFDA.
Unlike traditional tattoo inks that may contain heavy metals or other toxins, organic tattoo ink offers a safer and healthier option for both tattoo artists and clients. Using organic ink not only reduces the risk of adverse reactions but also promotes sustainability and ethical practices within the tattoo industry.
Once the ink is inserted into the dermis, it doesn't all stay put, research is finding. Some ink particles migrate through the lymphatic system and the bloodstream and are delivered to the lymph nodes. Research on mice suggests some particles of ink may also end up in the liver.
Commonly reported symptoms of tattoo-ink-associated infections include the appearance of rashes or lesions consisting of red papules in areas where the contaminated ink has been applied. Some tattoo infections can result in permanent scarring.
Used by professional tattoo artists for many years, Dynamic Black Ink is easy to use and will keep its deep black colour even after healing, with no blue or purple tint.
All of the lighter and brighter colours such as pink, yellow, light green/blue etc Will always fade faster than the darker colours, as well as the black and grey ink.
Although research is ongoing at the FDA and elsewhere, there are still a lot of questions about the long-term effects that may be caused by the pigments, other ingredients, and possible contaminants in tattoo inks. The FDA has received reports of bad reactions to tattoo inks right after tattooing and even years later.
Green Tattoo Ink
The shade of green highly affects how fast it will fade. Lighter and neon tones are more susceptible to signs of aging. The dark undertones used to mix green shades can affect the appearance of ink and may even cause green details to darken over time.
When it comes to cancer, black ink can be especially dangerous because it contains a very high level of benzo(a)pyrene. Benzo(a)pyrene is currently listed as a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
The primary pigments under restriction are Pigment Blue 15 and Green 7. The ban took place in January 2023 following an additional one-year derogation period granted for these two pigments. The European Union ink ban allowed the derogation period to allow businesses more time to find safe alternatives.
Tattoo Ink Safety
However, some colors, particularly red, green, yellow, and blue, are more likely to cause a skin reaction.
MOM'S inks are made entirely in the United States. Nothing is imported. They're made in a clean room in which nothing else is manufactured so the integrity of the ink is not compromised. Experts take appropriate safety precautions, such as wearing robes, masks, and hats at all times.
With ISO and CTL certifications, safety data sheets, and 100% vegan and cruelty-free options, World Famous Ink is the safest ink in the tattooing industry. Choose World Famous Ink for the best-healed results with true color matching and elevate your tattooing experience.
Eternal Ink stands out in the tattoo industry for its vibrant colors and durability. With a dedication to producing long-lasting pigments, Eternal Ink has become a favorite among professional tattoo artists worldwide. The brand offers a wide range of colors, ensuring artists can find the perfect shade for any tattoo.
Unfortunately, there's no hard and fast rule governing how much to tip tattoo artists. As with tipping waitstaff, 20-25% percent is a good standard.
So is Getting a Tattoo a Sin? It depends. Revisiting 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 is a great reminder when considering a tattoo: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price.
Symptoms of systemic toxicity can include nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, organ damage, or even worse complications in extreme cases. Additionally, tattoo ink ingredients may interact with the immune system, potentially leading to autoimmune reactions or immune-related disorders.
In animal studies, tattoo pigments have been found in the kidney, the liver, and the spleen. Therefore, although this has never been studied in humans, exposure to hazardous ingredients of tattoo inks and even subsequent cancer development should not be ruled out.
If you have a medical problem such as heart disease, allergies, diabetes, skin problems like eczema or psoriasis, a weak immune system, or a bleeding problem, talk to your doctor before getting a tattoo. Also, if you get keloids (an overgrowth of scar tissue) you probably should not get a tattoo.