Parker Waichman LLP

Tattoo Dyes in FDA Crosshairs

Tattoo dyes and inks are finally getting some attention from the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA is running the first-ever studies of tattoo dyes, prompted in part by reports of skin rashes, swelling blisters and other side effects linked to some types of tattoo dyes and inks. The consequences of careless tattooing can […]

Tattoo dyes and inks are finally getting some attention from the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA is running the first-ever studies of tattoo dyes, prompted in part by reports of skin rashes, swelling blisters and other <"https://www.yourlawyer.com/practice_areas/defective_drugs">side effects linked to some types of tattoo dyes and inks.

The consequences of careless tattooing can lead to skin infections and diseases such as hepatitis, tetanus and HIV from the use of non-sterile equipment. But up until now, tattoo dyes and inks have received little scrutiny from the FDA, even though such cosmetic products fall under its jurisdiction. As tattooing has become more mainstream and popular, some consumer advocates have called for change.

Considering how large the tattoo industry actually is, it is shocking that federal health regulators have ignored it for so long. Some 45 million Americans have at least one tattoo – and some have many more. Inc. Magazine recently estimated there are 15,000 tattoo shops nationwide — a $2.3 billion industry of mostly small, individually owned shops. Regulation of tattoo shops has been left up to state and local authorities, and most regulations focus on issues of basic sanitation and health codes.

The FDA tattoo studies will focus on the chemical make up of tattoo dyes and inks, as well as the way these chemicals interact with body chemistry. The FDA also wants to know the long-term safety effects of the tattoo dyes and what tattoo products may pose the greatest risk to consumers.

Some say the FDA’s action is long overdue. “The FDA doesn’t do anything. If you are concerned about public safety, we need rules and guidelines,” Charles Zwerling, an ophthalmologist and chairman of the American Academy of Micropigmentation, a non-profit group that certifies permanent makeup professionals, told The Chicago Tribune.

Many tattoo dyes and inks have caused serious health problems in some recipients. According to the Chicago Tribune, some of the inks have caused allergic reactions, including itchy and inflamed skin. In the case of a 2005 recall of 52,114 containers of pigments made by a Texas company, more than 150 cases of swelling, cracking, peeling, and blistering, scarring and chronically inflamed tissue were reported to the FDA.

The Chicago Tribune said that the FDA is aware of more than 50 pigments used in tattoo inks, none of which have been approved for injection into the skin. The federal agency said some of these pigments are “industrial strength colors suitable for printers’ ink or automobile paint.” But budget constraints and staffing issues have kept the tattoo dyes off of the FDA’s radar until now.

According to The Chicago Tribune, the FDA’s tattoo research could take several years.

What Our Clients Say About Us
We have worked with thousands of clients and we appreciate them and their positive reviews. Here are just a few recent client reviews...
5 Star Reviews 150
Mrs Michele Josama is very helpful and patient. It is such a pleasure dealing with her. Great job Parker Waichman!!!
marc rene
5 years ago
5 Star Reviews 150
Positive: Professionalism , Quality , Responsiveness Benita Rollis was very helpful and kept me informed on every step of the process of my case.
Jose Crespo
3 years ago
5 Star Reviews 150
Christina (Tina) Morace is wonderful and so very helpful!!!
Margaret Evers
a year ago

Why Choose Us to Help You?

We Take Care of Everything
Your situation is stressful enough: Let us take on the deadlines, paperwork, investigation, and litigation. We'll handle every detail so you don't have to worry.
No Recovery = No Legal Fees
We work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning that we only get paid from a portion of your settlement or jury award. If you don't get compensation, you owe us nothing.
Decades of Experience
Your situation is stressful enough: Let us take on the deadlines, paperwork, investigation, and litigation. We'll handle every detail so you don't have to worry.
Respected by Our Peers
Judges, insurance adjusters, and fellow attorneys all speak highly of our skills, and we've earned numerous accolades, including a flawless rating from AVVO.
We Have Many Locations To Serve You
We have the experience and the skilled litigators to win your case. Contact us and speak with a real attorney who can help you.
Long Island – Nassau
Parker Waichman LLP
6 Harbor Park Drive
Port Washington, NY 11050
Long Island – Suffolk
Parker Waichman LLP
201 Old Country Road – Suite 145
Melville, NY 11747
New York
Parker Waichman LLP
59 Maiden Lane, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10038
Queens
Parker Waichman LLP
118-35 Queens Boulevard, Suite 400
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Brooklyn
Parker Waichman LLP
300 Cadman Plaza West
One Pierrepont Plaza, 12th Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11201
New Jersey
Parker Waichman LLP
80 Main Street, Suite 265
West Orange, NJ 07052
Florida
Parker Waichman LLP
27299 Riverview Center Boulevard
Suite 108
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Nationwide Service
Parker Waichman LLP
59 Maiden Lane, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10038