What does the REACH Regulation stipulate regarding tattoo inks?
Since 2022, theREACH Regulation(EU) has been the talk of the town—especially in the tattoo scene.
Many people ask themselves: “Are tattoo inks dangerous, or were they in the past?” or “What does this mean for my tattoo?”
Here you’ll learn what the REACH Regulation actually covers, why it was introduced, and how it relates to your skin (and your tattoo care).
⚖️ What does REACH actually mean?
REACH stands forRegistration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals.
This EU regulation is intended to ensure thatall chemical substances in productsare assessed for their health risks.
Since January 2022, these rules havealso appliedto tattoo inks.
The goal: Only tested pigments and ingredients should be applied to your skin—greater safety, less risk.
💉 How does REACH affect tattoo inks?
In the past, certain pigments and additives were permitted for use that are now consideredpotentially harmful.
REACH is setting new standards in this area:
- Certain dyes and preservativesare prohibited.
- Manufacturers mustdemonstrate that their paints are safe.
- Tattoo studios are required to useonly REACH-compliant inks.
This means that if you get a tattoo today, you can be sure that your studio uses inks that meet the latest safety standards.
🇨🇭 Does REACH also apply in Switzerland?
Yes—these rules have been adopted in Switzerland as well.
Tattoo studios in this country must also ensure that they use onlyapproved, tested inks.
Regulation is handled at the cantonal level—many studios have their products certified directly to ensure maximum transparency.
💡 If you want to be absolutely sure: Just ask. Reputable artists will be happy to show you which colors they use.
🌿 What does this mean for you as a tattoo owner?
REACH ensuresgreater safety and better quality, which is a good thing.
So you don't need to worry if your tattoo was done by a professional Swiss studio that has complied with the reporting requirements.
What you can do:
- Always chooseregistered studioswith clear hygiene standards.
- Learn more about the colors used.
- Afterward, make sure to take goodcare of your tattoo so your skin can heal properly.
SKULLTRESS™ Balm & Oil– Swiss-made, vegan, natural – are perfect for gently caring for your skin after getting a tattoo and keeping the colors looking beautiful for a long time.
💬 REACH = greater safety, lower risk
The REACH Regulation protects you as a tattoo enthusiast. It ensures that only tested, safe inks are used, which strengthens the entire industry.
✨In short:
- REACH regulates chemical ingredients—including those in tattoo ink.
- Only certified pigments may be used.
- The REACH Regulation also applies in Switzerland.
SKULLTRESS™ Tattoo Care– natural care for REACH-compliant tattoos.
Safely inked, consciously cared for—that’s modern tattoo culture. 🖤