Tattoo Ink Health Concerns

A 2006 study by Fox News said that 24 percent of Americans between 18 and 50 have at least one tattoo. The procedure is relatively safe, but there are health concerns related to tattoo ink, including allergies to the ink or problems resulting from sun exposure.

Allergic Reactions

• The Mayo Clinic advises that red inks are particularly prone to causing allergies. An allergic reaction can cause itching and bumps near the site of the tattoo. The allergic reaction may not be immediately apparent. In some cases, the allergies do not show up until years after a tattoo procedure.

Difficulty with MRI

• Magnetic-resonance imaging, often called MRI, is a medical procedure that doctors use to diagnose many ailments. In rare cases, the MRI can have an adverse effect on tattoos. According to the MRI Safety webpage, a small number of patents with tattoos experience pain and irritation at the site of the tattoo. Patients should tell their doctor about all tattoos before undergoing an MRI, so the doctor can take appropriate precautions.

Sun Sensitivity

• Many colors of tattoo ink break down after the tattooed person spends significant time in the sun. Studies have not yet concluded exactly what happens to the ink and whether the body can easily metabolize it. People who have tattoos need to be especially careful when they spend time in the sun to avoid potential sun-related irritation at the site of the tattoo.

Granulomas

• A granuloma is a small lump that forms around foreign material in the body. Tattoo ink often causes granulomas to occur. These lumps are usually harmless, but can be uncomfortable and unsightly. Getting a granuloma removed requires a medical procedure.