Fashion & Style
20 January, 2026
Toxic metals found in tattoo inks sold in Australia
Tattoo inks sold in Australia contain toxic metals and carcinogenic compounds at levels that would be illegal in Europe, according to new research led by UNSW Sydney — raising fresh questions about the regulation of a product injected permanently into the body.
Tattoo inks sold in Australia contain toxic metals and carcinogenic compounds at levels that would be illegal in Europe, according to new research led by UNSW Sydney — raising fresh questions about the regulation of a product injected permanently into the body.
The study highlighted by Radio 2ST this morning, analysed the chemical composition of 15 black and coloured tattoo inks from major international brands purchased from Australian suppliers. Every ink tested failed at least one European Union safety standard.
Tattoo ink is a complex mixture of pigments, solvents and additives designed to remain in the body long term. Unlike cosmetics applied to the skin, tattoo ink is injected directly into living tissue, creating a permanent exposure pathway that bypasses many of the body’s natural protective barriers.
Since 2022, the European Union has enforced strict limits on the chemical composition of tattoo inks. Australia, by contrast, relies largely on voluntary compliance by manufacturers.
Using advanced laboratory techniques, the researchers detected multiple regulated toxic substances across the samples, including eight metals restricted under EU law: antimony, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, selenium and tin. At least one ink exceeded European limits for each of these substances.
Lead author Dr Jake Violi said the findings should be viewed as a warning sign.
The study also identified carcinogenic organic compounds. Toluidine, an aromatic amine banned under EU tattoo ink regulations, was found in three of the 15 inks. Sulphanilic acid, which is not typically suitable for human consumption or therapeutic use, was detected in nine inks.
Brightly coloured inks raised additional concerns. Researchers found extremely high concentrations of pigment-associated metals, including titanium at levels of up to 10,000 parts per million in a light-blue ink, along with elevated aluminium and zirconium.
Researchers say their presence at such concentrations is concerning, particularly given evidence that tattoo pigments can persist in the skin and migrate to lymph nodes.
Australia’s only government survey of tattoo inks was conducted in 2016, with an update in 2018. That report found most inks tested would not meet European guidelines and predated the EU’s current legally binding regulations.
For consumers considering a tattoo, health experts recommend asking studios whether the inks used comply with European safety standards, which currently represent the most comprehensive regulatory framework for tattoo inks globally.
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