Wellness Center

Tattoos and Permanent Makeup Come With Risks

Now that the kids are getting ready to go back to school don't be surprised if your teenager comes home and asks if he or she can get a cosmetic tattoo such as a rosebud on the arm or permanent eyeliner. While requests may seem innocent and a part of the social norm, kids and adults need to be warned about the potential risks that come with tattoos. And while about one quarter of the U.S. population has been tattooed, there are many who want their tattoo removed.

Things to Consider:

• The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) recommends that a person get a tattoo in only clean, licensed, and reputable places where sterile and sanitary supplies are being used. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) suggests that people look for inspection certificates at the tattoo shop to make sure they are following appropriate procedures for cleanliness and safety. When getting a tattoo there is the potential risk of serious infections, such as hepatitis or HIV, skin infections, and allergic reactions. According to the ASDS, no one should try to give himself or herself or a friend a tattoo because it can be extremely dangerous. It could even lead to death.
  
  
• Don't assume that a tattoo or permanent makeup can be removed. While some tattoos and permanent makeup can be removed, others cannot because of the depth of the tattoo or the colors of the ink used. There are techniques, such as laser surgery, dermabrasion, and surgical removal that can remove some tattoos. But the ASDS warns that the removal process could lead to infection, discoloration of the skin, or scarring. The AAD also warns that tattoo removal can be a "painful, timely, and costly procedure."
  
  
• The ASDS recommends that if you are going to get a tattoo, keep it simple for easier removal, choose a location that can be covered up if you don't want it to show, and remember that the site you choose may have scarring if it is ever removed.
  
  
• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating the safety of tattoos and permanent makeup and has received at least 150 adverse events reports. They warn that many shades and types of ink used for tattoos and permanent makeup have not been approved for injection into the skin. And that, in fact, some are only "suitable for printers' ink or automobile paint." The FDA has an adverse event reporting system for people who experience adverse reactions, infections, allergies, or problems with tatoo removal. If you have any questions or concerns, please go to the FDA Tattoo Information link.
  

Sources:

1. The American Society of Dermatologic Surgery. Tips to consider when obtaining a tattoo or piercing.
2. The American Society of Dermatologic Surgery. Tattoo removal.
3. The American Academy of Dermatology. Tattoos, body piercings and other skin adornments.

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis of specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt professional medical attention if you have a particular concern about your health or specific symptoms. Wellsource, Inc. is not liable for any health consequences resulting from your use of this site.