Tattoos have long been seen as symbols of freedom, identity, and self-expression. From full sleeves to delicate microblading, they’ve become a form of art etched into the skin. But while the meaning may be personal, the ink is not without consequence.
At Kungul, we’re not against tattoos or permanent makeup. We deeply respect art, identity, and freedom of expression. But we’re also passionate about health and transparency. And when something involves injecting substances into your skin, whether it’s a full-sleeve tattoo or microblading your eyebrows we believe you deserve to know exactly what’s going under your skin.
What’s Really Inside Tattoo and Permanent Makeup Ink?
Tattoo ink and permanent makeup pigments are more complex than most people think. They’re made of colorants (pigments) and carriers, and many of these substances were never designed for injection into the human body. Some inks contain heavy metals such as mercury, lead, cadmium, and aluminum. Others use carbon black, a pigment linked to carcinogenic compounds called PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons).
These ingredients often come from industrial or printer-grade materials and are not regulated for human use in most parts of the world. In the United States, for example, the FDA has not officially approved any tattoo ink brand for injection. While the EU has taken stronger steps, restricting over 4,000 substances in tattoo ink under REACH regulation, many of these pigments are still widely used elsewhere.
What Do the Ink Colors Really Contain?
Different tattoo ink colors carry different risks, depending on the metals or chemicals used to achieve those shades. Here’s what science has revealed:
- Black ink: Often contains carbon black, which may include carcinogenic PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons).
- Red ink: Frequently contains mercury sulfide (cinnabar), which can trigger severe allergic reactions and long-term skin irritation.
- Yellow ink: Commonly made with cadmium sulfide, a toxic metal associated with light sensitivity and inflammation.
- Green ink: May contain chromium, a metal known to cause allergic responses and, in some forms, carcinogenic effects.
- Blue ink: Can include cobalt or other heavy metals that increase the risk of hypersensitivity.
- White ink: Sometimes contains titanium dioxide, which has been linked to oxidative stress and particle migration to lymph nodes.
These substances are not just sitting on your skin, they’re injected beneath it, where they may remain indefinitely or travel through your body over time.
Does Tattoo Ink Stay in the Skin? Not Exactly.
Contrary to popular belief, tattoo ink doesn’t just stay put in your skin. After injection, pigment particles, especially nanoparticles, begin to travel through your body. Research has shown that they often accumulate in lymph nodes, where they can remain permanently and potentially alter immune response.
Ink particles can also reach organs such as the liver and lungs, and trigger chronic inflammation or allergic reactions. Some people report persistent itching or rashes around tattooed areas, even years after the procedure.This is especially concerning for permanent makeup, which is applied on highly vascular and sensitive areas like the lips, eyelids, and brows. The pigments used for permanent makeup are the same or sometimes even less regulated, than those used for body tattoos.
Do Tattoos Increase the Risk of Lymphoma?
In May 2024, a Swedish study made headlines for suggesting a potential link between tattoos and lymphoma, a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system. The study compared 1,398 people with lymphoma to 4,193 people without the disease and found that lymphoma was 21% more common in people with tattoos.
Interestingly, the risk seemed highest within the first two years of getting a tattoo, then lessened over time. However, these findings were not statistically significant, meaning they may have occurred by chance. There was also no link between the size or number of tattoos and the risk of lymphoma, which weakens the case for a direct connection. Experts caution that these types of studies show correlation, not causation. Many other factors like environment, lifestyle, or genetic predisposition could explain the results.
Other Health Risks Linked to Tattoos and Permanent Makeup
While serious complications from tattoos are rare when done by licensed professionals, health risks do exist. The most common include bacterial infections, especially if the equipment isn’t properly sterilized. In some cases, people contract more serious illnesses like hepatitis from contaminated ink.
Allergic reactions are another common issue, particularly with red, yellow, and blue pigments. These reactions can occur days, months, or even years after getting a tattoo or permanent makeup. Others experience scarring, keloids, or long-term inflammation that doesn’t go away with standard treatments. And although rare, there have been documented cases of skin cancer developing in tattooed areas. While there’s no proven causal link, these incidents raise valid questions about the long-term safety of injecting unregulated pigments into the body.
Tattoo Removal Comes with Its Own Risks
If you think you can just remove a tattoo later, it’s important to understand the risks of laser tattoo removal. When ink is broken down by lasers, it creates smaller fragments that are absorbed into your bloodstream. In some cases, this process can release toxic compounds, especially from colored inks that contain azo pigments. So while removal may erase the image, it doesn’t necessarily erase the exposure. In fact, it may increase your body’s absorption of dangerous substances.
Permanent Makeup Is Still a Tattoo
Many people view permanent makeup as safer or less “serious” than traditional tattoos. But the truth is, the procedure is essentially the same: pigments are inserted into the skin using needles. Whether it’s microblading, permanent eyeliner, or lip tinting, the same concerns apply from unregulated inks to allergic reactions and pigment migration. Since these tattoos are placed on thinner, more delicate areas of the face, complications can be even more difficult to manage or reverse.
Our Final Word: Art is Beautiful, So Is Awareness
We’re not saying don’t get a tattoo or permanent makeup. We’re saying: do it with full awareness.
Ask what pigments are being used. Check if they meet EU safety standards. Think twice about tattooing over lymph-rich areas like the neck or groin. Be especially cautious with permanent makeup, and choose certified professionals who prioritize safety. Tattoos can tell powerful stories but so can the ingredients in them. At Kungul, we believe that your health is your most personal story. That’s why we’re committed to helping you uncover what’s hidden beneath the surface, whether it’s in your skincare, your sunscreen, or your ink.
Scan Smarter. Live Healthier.
Download the Kungul App and discover what’s in your products and what that means for your body. From personal care to clean cosmetics, we help you make safer, science-backed choices.To avoid exposure altogether, explore Kungul Approved our curated space where every product is carefully vetted for ingredient safety, effectiveness, and environmental impact. No need to scan, we’ve done the work for you.
