If you’re interested in getting a tattoo, you may be wondering, “Is tattoo ink vegan?” Fortunately, tattooing doesn’t require eating anything, but the products used in the process are not always vegan. Stencil papers can contain lanolin, a substance that comes from sheep’s wool, and razor strips are often coated in animal glycerine.
Vegan tattoo ink
If you’re interested in getting a tattoo, you might want to consider choosing a vegan ink. Although vegan inks do not contain animal products, they are still subject to certain precautions. For example, the transfer paper used by tattoo shops often contains lanolin, which comes from sheep’s wool. Some tattoo artists also use lubricants and lotions containing glycerin. It’s also important to use a vegan aftercare product to keep your tattoo clean and safe.
Most tattoo studios understand the risks associated with animal-derived products and offer vegan alternatives. They also can recommend alternative tattoo artists who are vegan. You should call ahead to ask what your options are.
Ingredients
Despite the health risks associated with tattoo ink, many ink manufacturers have begun using organic and natural ingredients in their products. These products can make for a more comfortable experience, and many are derived from plant-based products. However, because tattoo inks are not covered by the FDA and do not go through the same testing as food products, it is difficult to know what exactly is in your tattoo ink.
Another way to avoid animal-based tattoo ink is to ask your tattoo artist which brands use natural ingredients. The most common vegan tattoo ink is made with vegetable waxes. Tattoo artists will generally disclose their ink’s ingredients.
Dangers
Vegan tattoos use plant-based inks and materials. Conventional inks used in tattoos contain azo pigments that release carcinogenic chemicals when exposed to sunlight and laser irradiation. Vegan inks, on the other hand, contain no carcinogens and do not contain shellac or talc, which can cause eczema or dermatitis.
Many tattoo inks also contain animal-derived ingredients. Glycerine, for example, is derived from palm and soybean oils, and is also used in tattoo inks as a stabiliser. However, not all glycerin is animal-based, and can be made from synthetic ingredients and soybean oil. In most cases, the manufacturer of the product will not tell you where the glycerin comes from.
Aftercare
Aftercare is essential for tattoo healing and maintaining the quality of the tattoo. There are vegan tattoo aftercare products available that are easy to use. Proper aftercare helps the skin heal quickly and prevents infection. Tattooed skin is very susceptible to infection and scarring. Following some simple steps will ensure a long-lasting tattoo.
There are a variety of products available that contain plant-based ingredients, including jojoba oil, olive oil, and shea butter. The best vegan aftercare products are formulated specifically for new tattoos and are just as effective as animal-based ones. Many leading brands now offer vegan versions of their products.
