In the buzzing corners and lanes within the city lie tattoo studios of all manners and sizes, filled with Bengalureans wearing their hearts on their skin. But Karnataka Health Department’s recent plan to write to the centre has sparked a conversation among Bengaluru’s tattoo artists and enthusiasts, stirring concerns beyond just needles.
The decision came after a recent analysis of eight tattoo-ink samples collected across the state by Karnataka’s Food Safety and Drug Administration officials, which alarmingly tested positive for around 22 metals. Reflecting on it, Chandrashekhar, manager, Skindeep Tattoo Studio, Indiranagar, supports the decision, stating, “The industry needs regulation and standardisation. The sooner the better.” He remarks that the decision does not affect their business, further explaining their procedures. “Every needle used is gas-sterilised and neo-sterilised, which comes in a blister pack and is opened in front of the customer.”
Adil Mohamed, a freelance tattoo artist, also welcomes the move, considering the hygiene factors. “I use a world-standard ink called Dynamic Ink, imported from the US. It passes their health standards and this ink has been in the industry for a long time.” Yet indeed, the proliferation of unregulated, cheap inks is a concern, with inks which may contain harmful substances to reduce costs or enhance colour vibrancy. “In the old days, they used soot to make ink. mixing it with oil; there might be cheaper alternatives available now which have trace amounts of metal components,” Mohamed adds.
For many artists, the significant challenge lies in educating clients about safe practices while navigating an industry that often lacks stringent regulations. “When most people go for the cheapest option, chances are it is going to be very skimpy with hygiene,” says Mohamed. Apart from that, Chandrashekar supports the use of black ink over anything else. “One should go for the black ink, primarily because it’s safe. Other fancy inks may cause problems with their metallic colours and ultraviolet glow in the dark,” he says.
On the flip side, tattoo enthusiasts like Athul Krishna note how regulations may affect the creative freedom of tattoo artists. “Norms regarding licensing and regulations of tattooing procedures are crucial because of health concerns. But at the same time, it should respect the creative freedom of the artist.” Another tattoo enthusiast, Rashmi Ravikumar, thinks licensing may curb employment opportunities for many. “Regulations will make tattooing more legitimate. Perhaps after this, we can look at a more systemic support structure for tattoo artists,” she says. With regulations, she hopes to see more safety protocols in place.
As a remedy for such concerns, Chandrashekhar mentions how beginners interested in tattooing should invest in learning . “Beginners can either go to a reputed studio for an internship or they can spend some time with a doctor – understand what should be done and what should not be done, ” he says.