Hi all, I would like to have my first tattoo but I am really struggling in finding nickel-free inks (completely nickel free). I am highly allergic to nickel and I would harm myself with a tiny amount of nickel. Would you be able to point me to a really nickel-free ink brand? Thanks for supporting! Al

Hi Alessio, some coloured pigments contain nickel. These have the following identifications: CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499.

You can find what are called Safety Data Sheets (SDS) from every tattoo ink manufacturer in the UK and EU. Iron oxide and titanium oxide should be avoided if you are allergic to nickel as they can cause allergic reactions.

We recommend that you talk to your tattoo artist and ask them to do an allergy test on the inks before tattooing. Your tattoo artist should also pay attention to the tattoo needles. These could also contain nickel, and minimal abrasion could result in them remaining in the skin and causing an allergic reaction.

The production and labelling of tattoo inks are subject to strict guidelines. It is best to ask the tattoo artist about the inks used and clarify the ingredients with a dermatologist. However, there will always be a residual risk.

If you do decide to get a tattoo, you should start with a small black tattoo to keep the risk of an allergic reaction as low and controllable as possible.