How is tattoo ink classified in relation to regulatory control?

Tattoo ink is not regulated by the FDA, which means that there are no specific federal guidelines governing its composition or safety. While some ingredients in tattoo ink may be subject to regulation, the inks themselves are not overseen as a whole by the FDA in the same way that pharmaceuticals or food products are. This lack of regulation means that manufacturers have significant leeway in the formulation of tattoo ink, and consumers may not have access to comprehensive safety information about the products being used.

Additionally, while certain states may have their own regulations or health guidelines regarding tattooing practices and the materials used (such as cleanliness standards or equipment sterilization), there is no overarching federal regulatory framework governing tattoo ink itself. This underscores the necessity for individuals seeking tattoos to choose reputable artists and studios that utilize high-quality materials.