FDA recalls 6 types of tattoo ink possible bacteria contamination

The Food and Drug Administration announced the recall of six types of tattoo ink because they are contaminated with bacteria.

The tattoo inks, made by a handful of manufacturers, are contaminated with microorganisms that can lead to serious injuries and an increased risk of infection since the skin barrier is broken during a procedure.

Common symptoms of an infection caused by tattoo ink are the appearance of rashes or lesions consisting of red papules near where the ink was placed, said the agency, which is working to remove the contaminated products from the market.

Some infections can also leave permanent scarring, the FDA said.

The inks affected by the recall:

Scalpaink SC, Scalpaink PA, and Scalpaink AL basic black tattoo inks manufactured by Scalp Aesthetics (all lots) Dynamic Color – Black tattoo ink manufactured by Dynamic Color Inc (lots 12024090 and 12026090) Solid Ink-Diablo (red) tattoo ink manufactured by Color Art Inc. (dba Solid Ink) (dba Antone’s Ink) (lot 10.19.18) The FDA advises consumers to ask tattoo artists or studios what ink they use before a procedure. Studios and artists are advised to no longer use the recalled inks.