Tattoo inks: evaluation of cellular responses and analysis of some trace metals

After tattoo application, inks remain in the skin, mostly in the dermal layer, and manufacturers use inks that have not been adequately evaluated for safety in tattoo production. In this study, the metal contents (Cd, Hg, Pb, and Cr) of tattoo inks available in the Turkish market were determined and the relationship between cell viability and inflammatory response of the detected metal levels was investigated. Nine tattoo inks (3 colors) from 3 different brands abbreviated as E, I, and W were examined. ICP-MS was used for element analysis. The viability of human keratinocyte cells was determined by the WST-1 assay following ink exposures at various dilutions. IL-18 levels were measured in cell culture supernatant by ELISA method following ink or metal (Cd, Cr, Hg, and Pb) exposures. The concentrations of trace elements were found in inks as follows: Cd, 0.0641–1.3857; Hg, 0.0204–0.2675; Pb, 0.8527–6.5981; Cr, 0.1731–45.3962 µg mL⁻¹. It was observed that the levels of Pb and especially Cr in the samples exceeded the limit values. Tattoo inks reduced the cell viability in a dose- and color-dependent manner. IL-18 release was significantly increased in all groups except Cr and black ink of brand I treated cells (p < 0.05). Our results show that the metal contents of tattoo inks exceed Council of Europe Resolution values in some samples and some inks induce immune system activation (IL-18 secretion) and cytotoxic effects. It is thought that these findings may contribute to the toxic/adverse effects of tattoo inks commonly used.