I believe we can all understand that everything has an effect on the environment, right? Strange things we don’t generally think about when we think of the environment are included.
First, let’s get the terrible news out of the way.
The toxicity of the ink is the most serious and visible environmental hazard related with tattoos. We know that not-so-healthy elements are prevalent in tattoo inks thanks to the European Commission. There are a few metals we’re all acquainted with, such as mercury and arsenic, but there are also some we’re not.
Inks also likely to have plastic in them, for any zero-wasters out there (also great). Oh, and if you’ve sworn off animal products, glycerin, sometimes known as animal fat, is commonly used in Liverpool Tattoo inks.
The Difficult
If you’re still set on getting a tattoo (or several — no judgments), stay away from colors associated with heavy metal, such as red. You can also inquire at tattoo parlors to see if they are willing to utilize non-metallic inks that are less prevalent. However, don’t be shocked if the alternative inks contain animal ingredients.
Another consideration is the general environmental friendliness of your chosen tattoo studio. Do you care about animal rights? Plant-based inks are available at Gristle Tattoo in Brooklyn, Alchemy Tattoo in Los Angeles, and Damask Tattoo in Seattle (I told you there are animal-friendly tattoo businesses!)
Tattooing in the Future
If this piece has made you feel hopeless, remember that post-tattoo care should be straightforward (and long-lasting)….
providing, of course, that everything goes well after the tattoo (e.g. no skin irritations.) Coconut oil, according to reports, can be used to care for your new tattoo.
Are tattoos a wonderful way to express yourself? Is it possible to devote a lifetime to a work of art? Have you ever heard any amusing stories about having too much to drink, or about a bet gone tragically wrong? Sure. However, if planet Earth were a person, it would likely be giving the middle finger to most tattooing-related activities right now.