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Updated: May 19, 2026
06:37
Skin Tattooing As A Novel Approach For DNA Vaccine Delivery
Published on: October 18, 2012
A visible response to an invisible tattoo
Matthew Tsang1, Amanda Marsch, Katrina Bassett
1Department of Dermatopathology, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
Journal of Cutaneous Pathology
|August 22, 2012
Summary
Invisible tattoos, a growing trend, can cause granulomatous dermatitis. This case report identifies melamine, an ingredient in these tattoos, as the cause of a patient's inflammatory reaction, highlighting potential risks.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Tattoo Artistry
- Toxicology
Background:
- Invisible (blacklight) tattoos are increasingly popular.
- Cutaneous reactions to traditional tattoo pigments are documented, but reactions to invisible tattoos are not well-studied.
- The rising trend necessitates understanding potential adverse effects.
Observation:
- A 28-year-old man developed a 2-month inflammatory eruption localized to a new invisible tattoo.
- The eruption was diagnosed as granulomatous dermatitis due to a foreign material.
- Biopsy revealed a refractile foreign material under fluorescent light.
Findings:
- The identified foreign material is believed to be melamine, an ingredient in the invisible tattoo.
- This is the first reported case linking melamine to granulomatous tattoo reactions.
- Previous reactions were attributed to polymethylmethacrylate, not present in this tattoo.
Implications:
- Melamine should be considered a potential cause of granulomatous reactions in invisible tattoos.
- Awareness of these risks is crucial for tattoo artists and consumers.
- Further research is needed to assess the safety of invisible tattoo ingredients.
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