Temporary Tattoos, a possible health risk?

Unlike permanent tattoos, temporary tattoos are tattoos in which ink is applied onto the surface of skin and last within a range from 3 days to several weeks.

You may think that as this is a non-critical/semi-critical procedure, there should be no risk associated. However, depending on the types of ink used and the sanitation knowledge of the artist, infections and allergies may result.

Reference: USFDA 

Topical Anesthetics

Needle-less anesthetics are commonly used to minimize clients' anxiety, for those who have fears for needles . Topical anesthetics is the mostly used type of needle-less anesthetics, with the active ingredient: Lidocaine/benzocaine/tetracaine. It is simply a topical cream that one applies a uniform thin layer onto the targeted part of the skin. It not only helps to numb the pain, but also becomes effective within a fairly short time frame.

However, adverse health effects may result with improper application:

 - excess absorption of the active ingredient, toxic effects

 - skin rashes

 - irregular heartbeat

 - seizures

 - coma

 - death

With its popularity in the cosmetic dermatology industry and the availability in over-the-counter topical cream, it is important for EHO's to note the possible use of topical anesthetics in the personal service establishments, especially for the laser hair removal and tattoo procedures.  

Reference: USFDA - Topical Anesthetics 

Old news, but food for thought!

Who knew Victoria BC has a bylaw requiring minors to receive parental consent before getting a tattoo? Bylaw no. 3304 also has a detailed set of guidelines attached to it, therefore making them enforceable! Something to think about for other municipalities?

Interesting Comparison

The National Collaborating Centre for Environmental Health (NCCEH) in July 2010 released an interesting document comparing the legal structures in place for personal service establishments. Different Canadian provinces and US states were analysed including regulatory bodies, training and enforcement, highlights and gaps/potential hazards.  Check it out here.

BC has passed new, more comprehensive guidelines! Click to view