Do the findings suggest that getting tattoos could have long-term health risks that were previously unknown?
The deposition of elements in lymph nodes has never been investigated before. However, data on the exposure against toxic elements are necessary for risk assessment in terms of chronic diseases. Since we do not have such data yet, people should be aware of the unknown risks that might come along with tattooing rather than presuming that the colors are safe.
For general information about tattooing see the BfR-FAQ on tattoo inks.
About the BfR
The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) is a scientifically independent institution within the portfolio of the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL) in Germany. It advises the Federal Government and Federal States (“Länder”) on questions of food, chemical and product safety. The BfR conducts its own research on topics that are closely linked to its assessment tasks.
