Study finds most people have adverse skin reactions from tattoos

A small study in the United States has found that troublesome skin reactions are quite common after getting tattoos.

According to the finding which was published in the journal Contact Dermatitis, researchers asked 300 people if they had any unwanted side effects after getting tattoos and 10% reported symptoms such as itching, pain and scarring.

Based on this, scientists are calling for monitoring to see how widespread the problem is.

According to BBC, researchers asked passers-by in New York's Central Park to complete surveys about their tattoos in which they were asked if they had ever experienced any adverse reaction like redness, skin infections, allergies, sensitivity to the sun and prolonged scabbing.

In 18 cases the symptoms lasted for more than four months.

Researcher Prof Marie Leger from New York University, said while he wasn't against tattoos, it is important to be aware these issues can occur.

According to him'

"There are lots of different things that can go wrong - from unregulated contents in ink, to hygiene levels at the tattoo parlour, and in many cases no one is at fault. It is the body's immune reaction to the process."

Surveys in Europe suggest the number of people affected could be even higher, although most countries, including England, do not have national reporting systems.

So, tell us, do you have a tattoo and have you experienced any adverse skin reactions from it? Share with us in the comment section below.