Under a decision adopted by the European Commission on Monday 14 December, a restriction on the authorisation of toxic chemicals in tattoo inks and permanent make-up is being introduced in the EU under the REACH Regulation.
This restriction was prepared by the European Chemicals Authority in consultation with the Member States.
It covers all substances prohibited by the EU Cosmetic Products Regulation, substances classified as CMRs (carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic to reproduction) or as skin sensitiser, skin irritant or corrosive, eye damaging and irritant substances, as well as a list of impurities, aromatic amines and colorants.
“Tattooing is increasingly popular in Europe. This is why it is urgent that we regulate those chemicals now”, said Environment Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevičius in a statement.
Concentration limits are established either for groups of substances or for individual substances such as certain azodyes and carcinogenic aromatic amines, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), metals and methanol.
Harmonised labelling requirements are also imposed in order to provide consumers and tattoo artists with additional information, to facilitate the implementation of the restriction, to prevent fragmentation of the internal market and to ensure that investigations can be properly carried out in the event of adverse health effects.
European citizens will thus be equally protected, irrespective of the country where they get tattooed and whether the ink is manufactured in the EU or not.
These rules will be applicable after a transition phase of 12 months. The transition will be 24 months for the ban on Blue 15:3 pigment and Green 7 pigment, as the industry has requested more time for alternative solutions.
Once these rules apply, tattoo inks and permanent make-up that contain the substances listed in quantities exceeding the specified limits may no longer be placed on the market and used in the EU. (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)