Tattoo and Permanent Makeup Ink Bacteria

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FDA Finds Bacterial Contamination in Many Tattoo Inks

The FDA tested inks from 14 manufacturers of tattoo and permanent makeup ink, revealing that roughly 35% of the inks were contaminated with bacteria. These infections can lead to serious, life-threatening complications.

New research from the Food and Drug Administration has found that many tattoo and permanent makeup inks are contaminated with potentially harmful bacteria, including some labeled as sterile.

The FDA tested 75 inks from 14 different manufacturers, which remain unnamed. Results showed that 35% of the inks were contaminated, with permanent makeup inks being more prone to contamination than tattoo inks.

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Even inks labeled as sterile were not immune to contamination. The study identified aerobic bacteria, which need oxygen to grow, and anaerobic bacteria, which thrive without oxygen. Bacteria found included staphylococcus saprophyticus (a common cause of UTIs), staphylococcus epidermis (associated with healthcare-acquired infections), cutibacterium acnes (causes acne), pseudomonas putida (affects the immunocompromised), and stenotrophomonas maltophilia (drug-resistant).

These bacteria pose significant risks to the 32% of Americans with at least one tattoo. Infections can travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system, causing systemic reactions that may lead to severe complications like sepsis and endocarditis.

The FDA reported an increase in tattoo infections in 2023, suggesting that contaminated ink could be a contributing factor, along with non-sterile techniques or improper aftercare by artists.

Tattoo and permanent makeup inks are not regulated by the FDA, but the agency issued draft guidelines in 2023 to help manufacturers avoid contamination.

Individuals with multiple tattoos or large designs are at higher risk of infection due to increased exposure to ink.

For those looking to get tattooed, experts recommend asking studios about their ink handling practices. In addition to standard precautions like using new needles and not cross-contaminating gloves and ink bottles, some studios conduct independent ink testing for contamination or use autoclaves to re-sterilize purchased ink.

Following proper aftercare practices is crucial, including using antibacterial soap, appropriate healing ointments, and avoiding swimming until the tattoo is fully healed.

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