Getting a tattoo can be an exciting adventure on that gives one inspiration for creating a unique style of their own. What some people never think about is what is in their ink? Tattoo inks are made up a variety of different items. Tattoo artists often make their own inks creating their own color and styles.
Tattoo Ink
Tattoo inks were originally created from items found in nature making color variations minimal and often less vibrant in color than today’s inks. Today, inks can be found in an unlimited number of colors and pigments. One of the most common types of tattoo ink pigment is acrylontrile butadiene styrene, or ABS plastic. Titanium dioxide, iron oxide, carbon black, naphthol derivates are just a few of the other items used to make ink pigments. Pelican ink or India ink are known for being used by amateurs and tend to be less vibrant in color than inks containing ABS.
Because tattoo inks are customized by the tattoo artists, regulating these pigments can be extremely difficult. Cosmetic tattooing is left primarily up to state regulations. If you are considering getting a tattoo it’s important to know your artist. You have to understand where and how they get their inks. Far too often people do not consider the risks involved with tattoo inks before getting there tattoo. Risks of infection, allergic reactions, granuloma, and keloid formation are only a few of the complications that can be the result of tattooing. The chemical make up of ink pigments can also play a role in how easily a tattoo is removed. Homemade tattoos and india ink are often easier to remove. So before your ink, please consider the risks and know where your tattoo inks are coming from.