Towards a better understanding of the use of additives in tattoos
Nicola Milanesi1, Ugo Gigli2, Greta Tronconi2
1Allergological and Occupational Dermatology Unit, Department of Health Science, University of Florence, Florence, Italy - teinomila@tin.it.
Background:
Tattooing is a popular practice worldwide, this practice is not free from complications and the last few decades have seen the raising occurrence of complications and adverse reactions.
Methods:
The aim of this study is to evaluate which substances are commonly used as additives among a group of tattoo artists working in Florence, to understand if mixing of colors and dilution of inks can be considered a potential source of infection or hypersensitivity reaction. A questionnaire containing a list of substances suspected to be added during the process of tattooing, was administered in presence of an investigator.
Results:
Forty-one licensed tattoo artists participated in the study. The cosmetic most frequently used as additive, resulted a rinse on cosmetic (36%) followed by distilled water (34%) and hamamelis lotion (17%).
Conclusions:
Our study provides new insights about the procedure of ink dilution and mixing of colors, shedding light on the possible risks related to the use of non-sterile products. The results of our study suggest that mixing of colors and ink dilution can be consider a potential source of infection and hypersensitivity reactions. Additional actions are necessary to strengthen and protect public health.
