The Karnataka Health Department is considering new regulations to regulate tattooing and introduce checks and balances, amid concerns over the potential health risks linked to tattoo inks and tattooing procedures. The department has also submitted a report to the Centre seeking regulations in this regard.
The department is preparing new guidelines to regulate tattooing practices in the state and is also considering legislation on the issue. According to officials, there is currently no specific legislation in the country governing tattooing and the health risks associated with tattoo inks.
The Karnataka Health Department has written to the Central government seeking regulations for tattooing, particularly in view of concerns over the chemical and metal content found in tattoo inks.
K. Srinivas, Commissioner of the Food Safety and Drug Administration Department under the Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Department, said on Wednesday that the department had analysed the issue and submitted a report to the Central government.
“Tattoo chemicals can lead to several diseases. We have formed a committee and written to the Central government. We have analysed the available studies and submitted a report. Based on the report, regulations need to be brought in for tattooing,” Srinivas said.
He said some tattoo inks contain chemicals and metals that could potentially enter the bloodstream during the tattooing process.
“When chemicals and metals enter the bloodstream, the blood can be affected over a period of time, which may lead to diseases,” he said.
The department is also in the process of forming an expert committee to examine the health risks associated with tattooing and recommend appropriate safeguards. The committee is expected to study the composition of tattoo inks, safety standards and practices followed by tattoo artists.
The move comes amid concerns that people undergoing tattoo procedures could be exposed to infections and other health complications if proper hygiene and safety standards are not followed. Officials have raised concerns about the possible transmission of infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C and other serious diseases through unsafe tattooing practices.
The state government is expected to frame guidelines covering the quality and composition of tattoo inks, hygiene standards, sterilisation of equipment and safety practices at tattoo studios.
The Karnataka government has also urged the Centre to consider introducing nationwide regulations governing tattooing, as the issue involves both public health and consumer safety.
Officials said the proposed regulatory framework would aim to ensure safer tattooing practices and minimise risks associated with potentially harmful chemicals and metals in tattoo inks.
With Inputs From IANS