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Tattoo inks: chemical characterization and distribution in the human skin

Project


Project code: BfR-CPS-08-1322-536
Contract period: 01.03.2013 - 31.12.2017
Purpose of research: Applied research

The long-term health effects of tattoos, especially with regard to possible allergenic or carcinogenic effects are largely unknown today. By the entry into force of the 1st regulation on tattoo inks at 1st of May 2009 some dyes have been banned for use. In addition, however, it remains unclear what colors are mainly used in Germany and whether potential risks to human health arise from this. Unlike cosmetics, tattoo inks do not have to cross the barrier of the human skin, but are introduced into it and thus subject to systemic distribution. This difference is so far not sufficiently considered in the risk assessment. From the literature it is known that over the years, a large proportion of the pigments is being transferred from the skin into systemic circulation. The proposed project is to characterize tattoo inks, frequently used in practice, chemically, with an initial focus on metals. Furthermore, exemplary studies on migration, metabolism and toxicity of characteristic pigments in the skin are planned, using model systems. In parallel to this, investigations with appropriate in vitro models for the identification of allergenic or genotoxic effects are considered.

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Subjects

Framework programme

BMEL - research cluster

Participating institutions

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