Which inks raise more concern?

Black inks with carbon black may contain PAHs; bright organic colours can include azo pigments that, under light or laser, may degrade into aromatic amines. Quality, formulation, and sourcing matter.

Do tattoo particles reach lymph nodes?

Yes, micro/nanoparticles can migrate to local lymph nodes. Researchers are still studying the health impact of this finding.

What do health agencies say?

EU REACH restricts many hazardous substances in tattoo inks (since Jan 2022). UK authorities are reviewing restrictions. The US FDA issues guidance and alerts, especially for contaminated inks. Evidence for a causal cancer link remains inconclusive.

Can Tattoo Ink Cause Cancer?

Ziggy
Aug 23
3 min read

Short answer: There’s no proven causal link between tattoo ink and cancer. Some recent studies show possible associations (e.g., certain blood cancers and skin cancers), and some inks can contain carcinogenic impurities. Overall risk appears low but not zero, and more research is needed.

⚠️ This article is informational only and not medical advice. Please speak to your GP or a dermatologist about personal health concerns.

Tattoo artist in white shirt creates back tattoo on seated client. Ring light illuminates scene. Sketches and blinds in background.

What the Science Actually Says

Association, not proof: Large observational studies (including a 2024 Swedish study and a 2025 twin-cohort analysis) reported a higher rate of lymphoma and some skin cancers among tattooed people, but they don’t prove tattoos cause cancer. Confounders and mechanisms remain under investigation.
Expert view: Medical reviews and health agencies emphasise evidence is inconclusive. The better-established risks of tattoos are infection and allergic reactions, not cancer.

What’s in Tattoo Ink (and Why Regulators Care)

Some inks (especially carbon-black blacks and certain bright colours) may contain PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) or PAAs (primary aromatic amines), some of which are classified as carcinogenic or possibly carcinogenic by international bodies.
The EU REACH rules (since 2022) restrict many hazardous substances in tattoo/PMU inks; specific blue/green pigments had a transition period before tighter limits. The UK is reviewing restrictions under UK REACH. The US FDA has issued guidance and multiple alerts regarding contaminated inks.

How Could Risk Happen? (Hypotheses Under Study)

Particle travel: Tiny pigment particles can move from the skin to nearby lymph nodes.
Degradation: Sunlight or laser removal can break down some pigments (notably azo dyes) into new compounds, some of which may be harmful.
Chronic inflammation: Long-term, low-grade inflammation is one theoretical pathway researchers are exploring.

Real-World Take: What This Means for Clients

Absolute risk appears low. The chance of infection or allergy is far higher than any potential cancer risk from ink itself.
Choose a reputable studio that uses high-quality inks from trusted suppliers, follows sterile single-use procedures, and gives proper aftercare.
Skin checks: If a mole under/near a tattoo changes, or a new persistent lump/ulcer appears, see your GP/dermatologist promptly.

Our Studio Standards (Hammersmith Tattoo London, W14)

We source inks from reputable suppliers, maintain strict single-use/sterile protocols, and prioritise aftercare education.
We’re happy to discuss ink options, allergies/sensitivities, and placement to reduce risks.
Questions? Send a clear photo or contact us — we’ll advise what’s normal healing vs. what merits a medical opinion.

When to See a Doctor

Rapidly changing mole/lesion under a tattoo
Persistent raised, painful, hot, or oozing area
Multiple bumps or spreading reactions
Systemic symptoms or a history of autoimmune disease

FAQs

Does tattoo ink cause cancer?

Not proven. Some studies report associations with lymphoma/skin cancers, but causation isn’t established and overall risk appears low.

Which colours are “riskier”?

Black inks (carbon black) can contain PAHs; reds/yellows and certain organics can contain azo dyes that may degrade into aromatic amines. Quality and formulation matter.

Can laser removal make inks more harmful?

Some pigments can break down into different chemicals during sun/laser exposure; whether that meaningfully increases cancer risk in people remains unclear.

Do particles really reach lymph nodes?Y

es, micro/nanoparticles can migrate to local lymph nodes. The health impact is still being studied.

Is the EU/UK/US regulating this?

EU REACH restricts many substances in tattoo inks (in force since Jan 2022). UK is progressing its own measures. FDA (US) issues guidance/alerts, especially on contaminated inks.

Bottom line?

Use licensed studios, high-quality inks, and good aftercare. Monitor your skin and ask a doctor about anything unusual.

👉 Ready to discuss a safe, well-planned tattoo? Contact Hammersmith Tattoo London