A recall has been issued by the Food and Drug Administration for several tattoo inks because they may be contaminated with microorganisms.
The FDA announced the recall on Wednesday of six tattoo inks due to the of the potential for serious injury. The contaminated inks can reportedly cause rashes or lesions with red papules in areas where contaminated ink has been applied. In some instances, infections can result in permanent scarring.
There is an increased risk of infection any time the skin barrier is broken, according to the FDA.
The FDA says that they became aware of the contaminated ink through inspections of distributors and manufacturers, surveys of marketed tattoo inks and microbiological testing.
Six inks manufactured by four companies have been found to be contaminated with bacteria harmful to human health.
The following tattoo inks are under recall:
- 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)
Consumers are asked to speak with their tattoo artists about the inks they use and avoid those inks under recall. Artists and ink retailers are advised to avoid using and selling the contaminated inks.
The FDA says it is working with manufacturers and retailers to remove the inks from the market.
Anyone who experiences symptoms of infections or injury related to the ink recall are advised to contact a healthcare professional and inform their tattoo artist. Cases should also be reported to the FDA via their MedWatch reporting program.
