After last week’s article on makeup and the potentially dangerous chemicals used in most modern skin care products, I had some inquiries about tattoos.
Are tattoos potentially dangerous due to the chemicals in the ink? That question has been discussed in several medical blogs I participate in, but there was no definitive study stating any concerns – until now.
Organic and inorganic pigments, preservatives, and heavy metals such as nickel, chromium, manganese, or cobalt can be found in most tattoo ink. It has been very well documented that heavy metals are neuro-toxic. Carbon black, along with titanium dioxide (TiO2), a white tint used to mix with other colors, are used extensively.
This last week in Scientific Reports it was reported that there may be a potential for an inflammatory response locally and/or systemically from tattoos. This inflammatory response may show up as fatigue, aches and pains, or other difficult-to-diagnose issues. Much more research is needed, obviously, but it may be something to think about before getting your next ink.
In the meantime, we have a few ways to help detoxify or remove many of the toxins I just mentioned from the body. This is also something to think about, as the toxic burden on our bodies is quite impressive these days.
Maybe a smart entrepreneur-type will open a chain of tattoo parlors, each with a medical provider next door?
