by Cynthia Golomb, MD
Tattoo ink doesn’t just sit on your skin’s surface. It can migrate to your lymph nodes and affect your immune system. There have been several recent studies that have challenged thinking on ink safety.
One Swedish study showed a 21% increased risk of lymphoma for those with tattoos compared to those without. The lymphoma most commonly develops within the first two years after tattoo exposure. There is conflicting evidence from other studies in the U.S. showing that tattoos may have a protective effect regarding melanoma.
The issue with tattoo pigments making their way into your body is that these pigments often contain heavy metals and known carcinogens. And when the sun hits your tattoo, some pigments decompose and create toxic byproducts. When your immune system sees these antigens (foreign substances), they can be taken to the lymph nodes through scavenger cells. As a result, these heavy metals can concentrate in lymph nodes and cause cancer.
Tattoos can make skin exams more challenging, so I always ask my tattooed patients about any symptoms, such as localized itching or stinging.
I strongly urge my tattooed patients to wear sunscreen to prevent the breakdown of pigment and maintain the chemical stability of tattoo ink. Sun safety is critical for patients with body art. Protective clothing with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) is another option for shielding tattoos from the sun.
Lymph node examination is a critical part of the skin exam, even in patients who have had their tattoos removed with a laser. I am also careful to palpate lymph nodes on heavily tattooed patients. I’m looking for swelling or lumps.
To learn more about how dermatologists are reevaluating tattoo safety, read this article in the Dermatology Times.
