Are we close to solving the mystery of red tattoo reactions?

Researchers think they know why reactions can be delayed by months or even years
Clare Pain
red ink tattoo
Reaction to red pigment of tattoo. Photo: Dermnet NZ

Dutch dermatologists are on track to solve the mystery of reactions to red tattoos after collecting data from patients with adverse reactions to the red ink.

Their study shows that complications from the red ink are most common in tattoos on the distal parts of limbs and the face, regions that receive the most sunlight exposure.