Colored tattoos, more dangerous?

Colored arm tattoos cover

If you love tattoos or are thinking about getting one, You may have heard that colored tattoos are more dangerous than black and white ones.

There is speculation that the ingredients used in colored inks may be toxic and cause health problems. These statements may lead people to avoid getting a color tattoo for fear of possible skin problems.

Below, we'll explore a list of factors that can help you decide whether color tattoos are right for you and whether they pose any real health risks.

The origin and evolution of tattoo colors

Black ink tattoos have been around for thousands of years, and colors began to be used in Japan in the 17th century. Hundreds of years later, colors like blue, yellow, green and red began to be used in the United Kingdom and the United States.

Over time, tattoo colors evolved and became much more popular in tattoo art. In recent years, high-quality inks have been developed, making tattoos safer and more effective.

Although inks are still not approved by the FDA in the United States, they have become much safer, causing fewer allergic reactions and are becoming more durable.

Tattoo colors, pigments and carriers

Tattoo inks are made up of pigments that are responsible for giving the color and being carriers for safe application on the skin.

The quality of the components plays a fundamental role in the healing of the tattoo and its durability over time.

Below we will look at some of the most common tattoo ink colors and what is used to make them:

  • Black: Its quality is very durable, it is one of the
    safer colors to use and the ink is made of carbon or iron oxide, it is ideal for outlines and fills.
  • Blue and green: They are rich in salts, made of copper oxide, and the colors range from light blue to deep forest green.
  • Red: Previously they were made with mercury sulfide and now organic pigments are used to achieve a brighter and much safer color.
  • Yellow: They are made from cadmium compounds, they are very striking shades, but they can react under sunlight.
  • White: They are composed of titanium dioxide and this color is ideal for highlighting or blending.

Risks of colored tattoos

Tattoos-colors-risks.

Colored tattoos are made with a variety of different ingredients as we have seen, from natural dyes to synthetic ones. One of the most commonly used synthetic dyes is titanium dioxide, which is white in color and is added to other inks to make them appear bolder and brighter.

This component, titanium dioxide, has been linked to an increased risk of skin cancer. Although the risk is relatively low, it is important to be aware of it.

Some other common side effects of colored tattoos include skin irritation, itching, and swelling. These side effects are often due to the chemicals in the ink. Additionally, some colors can be harder to remove with laser treatments, making it difficult to cover up a tattoo.

Tattoo ink colors you should avoid

Reds with mercury: These inks are becoming less common, but the first ones contained mercury and due to the high risk of allergic reactions or other health problems, the ingredients were changed. First of all, you have to ask the tattoo artist about the ingredients of the ink he is going to use.

Yellows and greens: These contain cadmium and can cause skin irritation. They also tend to fade faster or change color if exposed to sunlight.

Glow in the Dark Inks: These inks, although they may seem very attractive for having unique properties, surely contain chemicals that have not been tested on humans in the long term.

Low quality or very cheap inks: Try to avoid cheap and poor quality inks because they are probably not tested and can cause poor healing, increased discoloration and risks to your health.

Colors that do not suit your skin tone: Some colors may not look good on darker skin tones and may result in a muddy appearance.

Color tattoos that last longer

Black and grey tattoos

Black and grey ink tattoos tend to last longer and require fewer touch-ups. than most color tattoos.

The black tattoo It is still the safest color, therefore, if you want to get a permanent tattoo, choosing the traditional one would be the best option.

Pastel or watercolor ink tattoos fade much faster than black ink tattoos. and require further touch-ups over the years.

As for red ink tattoos It tends to maintain its color much longer than other colors, but it does not always maintain its vitality, and in some cases it can cause allergies.

Choose the color according to your skin tone

Your skin tone is crucial when choosing the color of your tattoo, as melanin acts as a filter and bright colors like red, blue and yellow may not look the way you want.

For dark skin tones: Black and shades of green work very well.

If you think you might want to remove the tattoo at some point, avoid red, yellow and orange tones as they are the most resistant to laser removal.

Research safe options before getting your tattoo

It is important to choose a professional tattoo artist who works in a clean, sterile environment and adheres to strict sterilization and hygiene practices.

Familiarize yourself with potential health risks before getting a tattoo, take your time to educate yourself about the potential health risks. Keep in mind that allergies to ink can occur, although they are relatively rare.

In addition, Some inks may contain chemical compounds linked to skin cancer. Above all, prioritize your well-being and health along with the artistic vision of the tattoo you want to have on your skin.

Finally, when it comes to getting a tattoo, the most important thing is to do your research. Whether you're thinking about getting a black and white or color tattoo, take your time to carefully select a professional and reputable tattoo artist.

By taking the necessary precautions, you can get a tattoo of any color without taking unnecessary risks. After that, you are ready to show off your tattoo!!


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