The EU cosmetics legislation prevents the use of many hazardous substances in cosmetic products. Tattoo inks or permanent make up are not regulated by this. The European Commission has, therefore, asked ECHA to assess the risks to human health and to examine the need for an EU-wide restriction.
ECHA calls for information on tonnages, release, and exposure of hazardous substances used in tattoo inks and permanent make-up, the costs of tattoo and make-up inks and of permanent make-up and tattooing services.
ECHA asks companies, manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers and professional users of tattoo inks and permanent make-up, as well as trade associations, consumer organizations, Member State authorities, and other members of the public to share relevant information till 23 November 2016. The information will be added to that published in the recent reports by the European Commission’s Directorate-General Joint Research Centre.
Together with the authorities of Denmark, Germany, Italy, and Norway, ECHA will then analyze the risks to human health, the availability of alternatives, and the socio-economic impacts of a possible restriction of the substances used in tattoo inks and permanent make-up. The authorities will then conclude whether certain substances in these products should be restricted. In the meantime, ECAH recommends that individuals with concerns or questions related to tattoos and permanent make-up or tattooing should consult their healthcare providers.
- European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), Helsinki, Finland
