Health risks of tattoo colors

Abstract

The number of tattooed individuals has increased significantly,
especially among youth. In the United States ∼24%
of the population is tattooed [1], whereas in Europe it is
∼10% [2]. Cosmetic tattoos (permanent make up) to mimic
eye, lip or eyebrow-liner, have also become increasingly
popular [3]. Tattoos or permanent make-up are simply
performed by injection of colorants into the skin using solid
needles. Injury of the skin and the application of unregulated
colorants cause health problems in humans [4]. A
survey is being performed by the Department of Dermatology
of the University of Regensburg in order to elucidate
the frequency of medical problems with tattoos [5], in
particular after laser treatment [6].