Heavy metals in cosmetics and tattoos: a review of historical background, health impact, and regulatory limits

Abed, Mayyadah S.; Moosa, Ahmed A.; Alzuhairi, Mohammed A.

doi:10.1016/j.hazadv.2023.100390

Cited by 4 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 220 publications

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“…Research by Laumann et al (2006) identified elevated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), potential carcinogens, in black tattoo ink (Lehner et al, 2014). Additionally, many tattoo inks contain hazardous substances like lead, cadmium, and arsenic, posing risks of acute and chronic toxicity (Abed, Moosa, & Alzuhairi, 2024). Fels et al (2023) reported heightened concentrations of these unsafe substances across a substantial proportion of tested tattoo inks.…”

Section: Chemical Composition Of Tattoo Inkmentioning

confidence: 99%

Medical and Societal Implications of Tattoos: From Ancient Traditions to Modern Risks and Removal Challenges

Kerna,

Carsrud,

Azi

et al. 2024

EJAHSS

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Tattoos, an ancient form of body art with roots dating back 5000 years, have evolved from cultural markers to mainstream symbols of self-expression. While historically significant figures like Amunet and Captain James Cook contributed to tattoo lore, modern celebrities like David Beckham and Kat Von D have propelled tattoos into popular culture. However, alongside their rise in popularity, tattoos also bring health risks. Research indicates that up to 67% of individuals with tattoos experience complications, with infections, allergic reactions, and scarring being common concerns. Moreover, tattoos can exacerbate existing medical conditions, particularly in individuals with diabetes, heart conditions, or immunosuppressive disorders. Individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding face additional risks due to physiological changes affecting wound healing and immune response. The chemical composition of tattoo ink, especially in complex styles like tridimensional matryoshka tattoos, poses further health concerns, including heavy metal toxicity and infection risks. Adequate safety measures, including choosing reputable artists, proper aftercare, and thorough pre-tattoo screening, can mitigate these risks. Prompt medical intervention is crucial in severe complications, emphasizing the importance of awareness and precaution in tattooing. Additionally, tattoo removal methods come with their own set of risks and considerations, with laser therapy being the primary choice but not assuring complete removal.

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Section: Chemical Composition Of Tattoo Inkmentioning

confidence: 99%

Medical and Societal Implications of Tattoos: From Ancient Traditions to Modern Risks and Removal Challenges

Kerna,

Carsrud,

Azi

et al. 2024

EJAHSS

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

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Quantification of toxic metals contamination and health risk assessment in processed and raw dairy products in Abbottabad city

Naseem,

Abbasi,

Ajab

et al. 2025

Journal of Hazardous Materials Advances

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A review of environmental and health effects of synthetic cosmetics

Wirtu

2024

Front. Environ. Sci.

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The use of cosmetic products is expanding globally, and with it, so is the range of chemical substances employed in their production. As a result, there is also a higher risk of intoxication, allergic reactions, prolonged chemical exposure, adverse effects, and indiscriminate use. Cosmetic products can contain more than 10,000 ingredients. Most users of synthetic cosmetics are unaware of the harmful effects if they even are. However, it is linked to many diseases like cancer, congenital disabilities, reproductive impairments, developmental systems, contact dermatitis, hair loss, lung damage, old age, skin diseases and reactions, allergies, and harm to human nails. Many beauty products also create a high demand for natural oils, leading to extensive and intensive cultivation, harming natural habitats through deforestation, and contaminating soil and water through pesticides and fertilizers. The adverse effects of hazardous substances in synthetic cosmetics extend beyond human health and influence ecosystems, air quality, and oceans. Thus, this review aims to assess the environmental and health impacts of cosmetics using published scientific articles. The study used a systematic review based on Scopus, Science Direct, Web databases, Scholar Google, and PubMed. The results of this review showed that the formulation of cosmetics until the disposal of their containers could adversely affect environmental and human health.

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Heavy metals in cosmetics and tattoos: a review of historical background, health impact, and regulatory limits

Cited by 4 publications

References 220 publications

Medical and Societal Implications of Tattoos: From Ancient Traditions to Modern Risks and Removal Challenges

Medical and Societal Implications of Tattoos: From Ancient Traditions to Modern Risks and Removal Challenges

Quantification of toxic metals contamination and health risk assessment in processed and raw dairy products in Abbottabad city

A review of environmental and health effects of synthetic cosmetics

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