Texas: Beware FDA Recalled Tattoo Ink Infected With Bacteria

I feel like I need to start by saying that tattoos done in a professional environment by properly licensed artists tend to be incredibly safe.

Professional shops are held to very high standards, so don't let this recall convince you to forgo getting a tattoo at a reputable shop.

Now, with that being said, one brand of tattoo ink has been recalled and the website that sold them is offline after the inks were found to be contaminated with several microorganisms that are harmful to human health.

Bloodline tattoo ink produced by Sierra Stain LLC of Carson City, Nevada, has recalled three colors. Carolina Blue, All Purpose Black, and China Pink have all been recalled due to several species of microorganisms present in tested samples.

Luckily, no illnesses have been reported to date.

Again, if you are going to a professional, feel free to ask about the inks they use. Every tattoo artist I know would be happy to tell you and show you their inks.

In fact, they'll probably nerd out about it and you'll learn way more than you ever knew you wanted to about the inks they use.

Usually, when something goes wrong with a tattoo it's because the person who got it didn't use proper aftercare techniques. That's why it is so important to read and abide by the aftercare instructions that your artist will give you.

Allergies can happen too, but are rare and tend to be mild.

And remember: never go swimming with an unhealed tattoo, a Texas man died after swimming in the Gulf after getting a tattoo in 2023.

So go on, get the tattoo! Just be careful afterward, and don't be afraid to ask questions before the needle touches your skin.