The European Commision has released the results of research into the health risks and impact of tattoos and body piercing. Problems include the fact that many inks used in tattoos derive from car paint or writing inks and there is no data on safe use on skin. When health standards are disregarded, these practices can bring about viral infections such as hepatitis, HIV; bacterial and fungal infections; allergic reactions such as skin irritation and urticaria; malignant lesions such as melanoma; leprosy and other devastating diseases.
The Commission plans to develop safety standards for professional use and will cooperate with the Council of Europe which has drafted a resolution on "tattoos and permanent make-up".
