Are tattoos and permanent make-up safe?
FDA is looking into the safety of tattoos and permanent make-up since they are now more popular. The inks, or dyes, used for tattoos are color additives. Right now, no color additives have been approved for tattoos, including those used in permanent make-up. You should be aware of these risks of tattoos and permanent make-up: • Tattoo needles and supplies can transmit diseases, such as hepatitis C and HIV. Be sure all needles and supplies are sterile before they are used on you. • Tattoos and permanent make-up are not easy to take off. Removal may cause a permanent change in color. • Think carefully before getting a tattoo. You could have an allergic reaction. • You cannot make blood donations for a year after getting a tattoo or permanent make-up.
