Pigments in American Tattoo Inks and their Propensity to Elicit Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Publication date: Available online 5 February 2019

Source: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology

Author(s): Walter Liszewski, Erin M. Warshaw

Abstract

Background

Tattoos have become increasingly common in the United States. Historically, tattoo inks were comprised of metallic pigments which had the potential to cause allergic contact dermatitis. Data have been lacking on the current use of these pigments in tattoo ink.

Objective

Identify pigments currently used in tattoo inks manufactured in or sold by wholesalers in the United States and investigate cases of allergic contact dermatitis to these pigments.

Methods

Using specific keywords, an internet search was performed. Pigment information listed in tattoo product inserts was collated and evaluated.

Results

1,416 unique inks were surveyed. The average bottle of ink contained 3.0 pigments. A total of 44 distinct pigments were identified, of which 10 contained metallic pigments including iron, barium, zinc, copper, molybdenum, and titanium. The remaining 34 pigments contained carbon, azo, diketopyrrolopyrrole, quinacridone, anthraquinone, dioxazine, or quinophthalone dyes. A literature search revealed that 11 of the 44 (25%) pigments had been suspected to cause contact dermatitis. Five were confirmed by patch testing.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the diversity of pigments currently used in tattoos. Relatively few inks contained metallic pigments to which allergic contact dermatitis has historically been attributed. Patch test clinicians should be aware of these new pigments.

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