On the arm, the ankle, the back… The tatoos are on the rise. It is estimated that in France, in 2023, one in five French people will have taken the plunge, compared to one in ten people in 2008. But these permanent drawings are not without health risks. Health Insurance recommends checking that your vaccinations are up to date and being vaccinated against hepatitis B. Among the risks, we note allergic reactions, irregular healing or even an infection.
Lead content, non-sterile inks: tattoo inks in the sights of the DGCCRF
It is on this last point that the General Directorate for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF) alert in its 2023 activity report. Indeed, according to it, “a third of the 34 products checked are non-compliant and dangerous, with for example cases of lead content above the maximum authorized threshold”. During the press conference, Sarah Lacoche, director general of the DGCCRF, specifies that “For others, of particular concern, the products were non-sterile.” “In this case, our concern is also to inform all professionals to ensure that they have the information on risky inks,” adds Sarah Lacoche.
As the DGCCRF explains in its report, “checks relating to the loyalty and safety of tattoo and permanent makeup products were initiated in the second half of 2023, targeting ink manufacturers”. The authorities specify, however, that these are “partial” results. For the year 2024, the Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Prevention “will then become the sole French supervisory authority for the cosmetics and tattoo products market”.
How do I know if I have been exposed to non-compliant tattoo ink?
Last April, the DGCCRF published the analysis results on the composition of tattoo inks, the black CI 77266 and blue CI 77007 tattoo inks, from the FERBER TATTOO INK brand being deemed non-compliant with the applicable regulations. In fact, the products were not sterile and their display incomplete. “It notably omits a safety warning concerning the risk of nickel allergy”we can read in the news.
Also, to find out if you are concerned, the DGCCRF reminds that if you have been tattooed, “the establishment in which you had your tattoo must have traceability of the injections carried out”. If adverse effects occur such as redness, pimples or other skin reactions in the tattoo area, it is strongly advised to consult a doctor or dermatologist.
If you experience adverse events, you can report them on the adverse health event reporting portal.
Sources :
- Activity report 2023 – Outlook 2024 – Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF)
- Press conference of the Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF) – (05/03/2024)
- FERBER TATTOO INK tattoo inks: be careful, dangerous! – Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF) (04/09/2024)
