Karnataka seeks nationwide tattoo rules over concerns about ink chemicals and infections

Karnataka has asked the Centre for nationwide tattooing rules, citing concerns over ink chemicals, studio hygiene and infections.

Karnataka is seeking tighter controls on tattooing, with the health department asking the Centre to establish nationwide rules governing tattoo inks, studio hygiene and tattooing procedures after its own review raised concerns about chemicals, metals and infections, officials said on Thursday.

Karnataka is seeking tighter controls on tattooing, including standards for inks, studio hygiene and tattoo procedures. (Image for representation/Unsplash)

The state has formed a committee to examine the health risks and is preparing guidelines that could regulate tattoo studios and the materials they use. Officials said Karnataka is also considering legislation, noting that there is currently no specific law in the country dealing with tattooing and the health risks linked to tattoo inks. K Srinivas, commissioner of the food safety and drug administration department under the Karnataka health and family welfare department, said the state had completed an analysis of studies and submitted its findings to the Central government.

“Tattoo chemicals can lead to several diseases. We have formed a committee and written to the Central government. We have analysed the available studies and submitted a report. Based on the report, regulations need to be brought in for tattooing,” Srinivas said.

State committee to assess tattooing health risks

The department is now working on an expert committee that will examine the composition of tattoo inks, safety needs and the procedures followed by tattoo artists. Its recommendations are expected to inform safeguards for tattooing in the state.

A central concern is the presence of chemicals and metals in some inks. Srinivas said these substances could enter the bloodstream during the tattooing process and potentially affect blood over time. “When chemicals and metals enter the bloodstream, the blood can be affected over a period of time, which may lead to diseases,” he said.

Hygiene, sterilisation among proposed safeguards

The proposed state framework is expected to address the quality and composition of inks, hygiene at tattoo studios, sterilisation of equipment and other safety measures. Officials are also concerned that inadequate hygiene during tattoo procedures could expose people to infections, including hepatitis B and hepatitis C, as well as other serious diseases.

The Karnataka government has asked the Centre to consider a regulatory framework applicable across the country, arguing that tattooing raises issues involving both public health and consumer safety.