Tattoos and Permanent Makeup: Types, Risks and Removal

If you are considering getting a tattoo or permanent make-up there are some things you should know. Tattoos are marks or designs on the skin and are temporary or permanent. Permanent tattoos and are meant to last forever. Tattoos are made with a needle and colored ink. The needle puts the ink into the skin. Some of the ink colors used are the same colors used in printing or painting cars. These colors have not been tested for safety and none are approved by the FDA for injecting into the skin. Tattoos can cause allergic reactions.

There are four types of tattoos. A permanent tattoo involves a needle being used to insert colored ink into the skin. Permanent make-up is a permanent tattoo that looks like make-up (eyebrow pencil, lip liner, eyeliner, or blush). Henna (mehndi) tattoos use a natural plant dye called henna to stain the skin. Henna tattoos last 2 to 3 weeks. Henna is not approved by the FDA for use on the skin. And of course, sticker variety temporary tattoos are just stickers that are put on with water and rubbed onto the skin. Temporary tattoos last just a few days and have colors approved for use in make-up.

People get tattoos and permanent make-up for various reasons. Some want to restore a natural look to the face or breast, especially if there has been surgery to the area. Some have trouble putting on make-up due to a medical condition. Some people get permanent make-up eyebrows because they have lost their own. Many people find tattoos appealing or are influenced by culture and society.

There are risks involved with tattoos and permanent make-up. Dirty tattoo needles can pass infection from one person to another, causing serious illnesses like hepatitis and HIV. Some inks can cause serious allergic reactions. You may notice a lumpy, bumpy appearance around the color of the tattoo, as well as swelling or burning when/if you have an MRI. These are rare but serious side effects to consider before getting a tattoo or permanent make-up.

Many people decide they do not like their tattoo after a few years. Tattoos can be removed with several treatments and considerable sums of money. The risk of scarring is possible when getting or removing a tattoo. Removal should be done by a licensed doctor.

Put some serious thought into getting a tattoo before you proceed. Removal can be difficult and costly, sometimes leading to surgery and scars.

www.fda.gov