Color them surprised. In a new study, German researchers were able to track how the liquid components of tattoo ink behave in the body. Scientists in Germany’s Federal Institute for Risk ...

Of the 40 tattoo inks specifically, nine (22 percent) were contaminated. Among all the ink samples, 49 were labeled "sterile" and, of those, 16 (33 percent) were contaminated.

The latest study tested 75 samples of sealed tattoo and permanent makeup ink sold in the United States by 14 manufacturers that were not named by the FDA. Some of the samples were labeled as sterile.

News These tattoo inks may cause infections, FDA advises artists, clients not to use them Published: May. 08, 2025, 9:37 a.m.

The FDA said in 2023 it has been receiving an uptick in reports of infections and allergic reactions from contaminated tattoo ink. Adverse reactions may include redness, bumps and a rash.