Few people think about the health implications when deciding to get a tattoo. Aside from the risk of infection, allergic reaction and disease transmission, research shows that tattoos may also be linked to cancer. Tattoo inks are largely unregulated and known to contain cancer-causing compounds. Experts believe the nanoparticles in tattoo ink specifically are leaving the surface of the skin and traveling elsewhere in the body, where they could potentially enter organs and other tissues. When a 7-year-old wanted to experiment with fun designs on her body, her father took her to get a temporary black henna tattoo. As a result, she’s left with intense scars.
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While on vacation in Egypt, the Gulliver family stayed at an upscale hotel that offered black henna tattoos. Siblings 7-year-old Madison and 9-year-old Sebastien both got artistic designs tattooed on their hands, from their forearms down to their fingers. Sebastian began complaining immediately of itchy skin, so he washed off the dye. Shortly after, Madison began to experience itchy skin as well, but her reaction was much more severe. Blisters broke out on Madison’s skin underneath the tattooed area. The blisters became so severe, her parents rushed her to the emergency room.
Doctors treated Madison’s wound and explained that the black dye used in some henna tattoos can contain unsafe levels of toxic chemicals. After testing the pH levels in the 7-year-old’s blisters, doctors confirmed that she suffered from chemical burns, likely caused by one dangerous ingredient in particular — paraphenylenediamine (PPD).
Often used as an ingredient in hair dyes, PPD is a chemical substance that requires oxygen in order to become a dye. Research shows PPD is linked to fatal complications such as renal failure, respiratory failure and angioneurotic edema. The chemical can also be found in dark-colored cosmetics and industrial materials like printing inks, black rubber, oil, grease and gasoline. Some of the most common side effects of PPD include itchy rash, reddening, blistering and swelling, dermatitis and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation or scarring.
When it comes to henna, hair dyes and tattoo ink, the health risks are many. Considering the amount of chemicals and other questionable ingredients they contain, it’s best to stay away.