FDA Issues Warning on Dangerous Contaminated Tattoo Inks

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning to both consumers and tattoo artists regarding the safety of certain tattoo inks. Recent testing revealed that two specific inks, Sacred Tattoo Ink in Raven Black and Sunny Daze, were contaminated with harmful bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which poses a risk of serious infections when injected into the skin.

The contaminated products are identified by their lot numbers and expiration dates: Raven Black (Lot RB0624, Best Before June 28, 2027) and Sunny Daze (Lot SD1124, Best Before Nov 1, 2027). Infection symptoms can include redness, rashes, bumps, or lesions that might lead to permanent scarring if not treated promptly. The FDA highlights that breaking the skin barrier during tattooing increases the risk of infection, which can sometimes be mistaken for allergic reactions, potentially delaying appropriate treatment.

These findings stem from routine microbiological testing used primarily for cosmetics, during which the FDA discovered the bacterial contamination. As a precaution, tattoo artists and studios are advised to avoid using or selling these specific inks. Consumers are encouraged to inquire about ink brands used during tattoo sessions and opt for reputable, verified products.

The FDA is actively working with manufacturers and vendors to remove these contaminated inks from the market. Anyone experiencing adverse reactions after getting a tattoo should seek medical attention and report their experiences via the FDA’s SmartHub platform. For more details on tattoo safety, visit the FDA's dedicated page on tattoo health concerns.