"Hidden Dangers: Unlabeled Chemicals Found in 90% of Tattoo Inks"

A new study published in Analytical Chemistry reveals that 90% of tattoo inks have unlabeled or mislabeled ingredients, potentially posing health risks to those getting tattoos. The research, led by chemist John Swierk, found discrepancies between listed ingredients and actual composition, with some inks containing undisclosed substances like ethanol and azo-containing dyes that could potentially cause cancer. The lack of government regulation and understanding of tattoo ink composition raises concerns about the safety of tattooing, prompting the What's In My Ink project to analyze commonly used tattoo inks using various spectroscopic methods.