The Food and Drug Administration has recalled six types of tattoo ink over concerns they may be contaminated with bacteria.
The ink, made by a handful of manufacturers, could cause infections and lead to serious health risks when injected into the skin, the FDA said. Common symptoms of tattoo ink-related infections include the appearances of rashes or lesions where the contaminated ink has been applied. Some tattoo infections can result in permanent scarring.
People thinking about getting a tattoo or those who have recently received one are advised to ask the artist or studio about the inks they use and avoid the recalled ones. Tattoo artists are advised to avoid using or selling the tattoo inks.
The recalled inks are:
Scalpaink SC, Scalpaink PA, and Scalpaink AL basic black tattoo inks manufactured by Scalp Aesthetics (all lots)
Dynamic Color - Black tattoo ink manufactured by Dynamic Color Inc (lots 12024090 and 12026090)
Solid Ink-Diablo (red) tattoo ink manufactured by Color Art Inc. (dba Solid Ink) (dba Antone’s Ink) (lot 10.19.18)
People who believe they have an issue with tattoo ink should contact their healthcare provider and are asked to report to MedWatch: FDA’s Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.