Formaldehyde Release From Predispersed Tattoo Inks: Analysis Using the Chromotropic Acid Method

Abstract

Background: Allergic contact dermatitis to tattoo ink may last from weeks to years. Formaldehyde is a strong sensitizer that may be present in predispersed tattoo inks. Objectives:The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of formaldehyde in predispersed tattoo inks using the chromotropic acid method.Methods: Tattoo inks from 39 companies were evaluated. Inclusion criteria included availability to purchase inks online through US tattoo product wholesalers or individual Web sites. Brands were grouped based on prevalence of use: common, uncommon, or rare. For common brands, 8 colors (primary colors, secondary colors, black, and white) were purchased. For uncommon and rare brands, 5 colors (primary colors, black, and white) were purchased. Each ink was tested with standard chromotropic acid method procedures; concentration of formaldehyde released was quantified using spectrophotometry. Results:In total, 127 tattoo inks were purchased and tested. Ninety-three (73%) tested positive for formaldehyde release; 34 (27%) tested negative. Formaldehyde release did not correlate with color or brand. At least 1 ink from all brands (except 1) was positive for formaldehyde release. Conclusion:Approximately three-quarters of selected US tattoo inks tested positive for formaldehyde release. Clinicians should be aware of tattoo ink as a potential source of formaldehyde.

Hypersensitivity to permanent tattoos: Literature summary and comprehensive review of patch tested tattoo patients 1997–2022

“…About 3/4 of American, Japanese and European inks released formaldehyde between 2.5 and 80 ppm in a recent study from Liou et al, the limit of detection was 2.5 ppm. 102 Thirteen of the analysed 93 inks (14%) labelled DMDM hydantoin, the residual inks did not declare any formaldehyde (-releasing agent).…”

“…The content of formaldehyde is usually rather low as it mainly derives from the use of formaldehyde releasers (e.g., DMDM hydantoin, bronopol) or from contaminated raw materials. About 3/4 of American, Japanese and European inks released formaldehyde between 2.5 and 80 ppm in a recent study from Liou et al, the limit of detection was 2.5 ppm 102 . Thirteen of the analysed 93 inks (14%) labelled DMDM hydantoin, the residual inks did not declare any formaldehyde (‐releasing agent).…”

Electrochemical and Optical Sensors for the Detection of Chemical Carcinogens Causing Leukemia

“…Due to its bactericidal properties, formaldehyde is used in the production of formalin [ 45 , 46 , 47 ]. Formaldehyde can be released from tattoo inks, eyelash glues, and preservatives used in the production of personal hygiene lotions, nail polishes, makeup removers, lotions, and creams [ 42 , 48 , 49 , 50 ]. Formaldehyde has also been detected in cigarette smoke and e-liquid from electronic cigarettes [ 34 , 51 ].…”

Contact allergy to and allergic contact dermatitis from formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers: A clinical review and update

“…11 for a review on the subject), and even tattoo inks, may contain FA. 12 FRs constitute a group of 40, chemically different preservatives/biocides, all containing a detachable FA moiety and introduced to replace the more carcinogenic free FA. Indeed, in cosmetic, medical, household, as well as several industrial applications, FA has been replaced by FRs, exerting the same broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, notably gram-negative bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, yeasts, and fungi.…”

“…In addition, other personal protective equipment (PPE), such as clothing, 10 to protect health care workers from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) (see Ref 11 . for a review on the subject), and even tattoo inks, may contain FA 12 …”