3 Myths about Tattoo Ink (Really Tattoos Dyes)

1. Myth#1 Tattoos use Ink

   Nope! Tattoos use dyes, ink is a mouth worm. With INK, the pigment sits on the surface of the substrate; with dyes, the pigment sinks into the substrate. Since your skin is the substrate in tattooing, your skin is being dyed--the stencil or marker drawing on the surface is INK, but NOt the actual tattoo. Of course, getting inked sounds way better than get dyed.

2. Myth #2 Tattoo ink is Regulated by the FDA

   There are NO FDA regulations for tattoo ink. The FDA considers the inks used in intradermal tattoos, including permanent makeup, to be cosmetics. The actual practice of implanting inks/dyes is regulated by local jurisdictions. In Oregon, the only requirement for Ink is that it is purchased from a "commercial manufacturer":
   (6) Inks, dyes, or pigments must be purchased from a commercial supplier or manufacturer. Products banned or restricted by the Food and Drug Administration must not be used.
   OHLA Link to Tattoo Ink Rule
   

3. Myth #3 Laser Tattoo Removal Always Works

   Despite advances in laser technology, removing a tattoo is a painstaking process, usually involving several treatments and considerable expense. But even laser removals fails sometimes. Some colors such as RED, BLUE, and GREEN cannot be fully removed. BLACK IS USUALLY THE EASIEST PIGMENT TO REMOVE WITH LASERS. If the artist went too deep or the tattoo got infected, removal without scarring may be impossible.

To find out more about Tattoo Safety visit FDA.Gov