Toxicological risks of tattoo dyes: a narrative review

Abstract

Objective: To address, through a narrative review, the potential toxicological risks to human health associated with tattoo dyes. Bibliography review: Tattoo inks are often a combination of water, organic compounds and isopropyl alcohol. However, this composition is quite variable depending on the manufacturer, and inorganic pigments, organic pigments and additives. With the popularization of tattoos in recent years, the number of reports involving reactions to pigments has increased. Delayed allergic and/or hypersensitivity reactions to pigments were found in the literature, including case reports on post-tattoo uveitis, as well as the identification of the presence of nickel and chromium in the skin of tattooed individuals due to the mechanical stress of the needles used in the technique. It was also found that the breakdown of pigment particles by photodecomposition can cause an increase in toxicity. Final considerations: There is a need for greater rigor in the regulation and inspection of these dyes, as well as the creation of standardized quality control standards for pigments, identification methods and quantification of the compounds used.