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[September 2019]

Skin damage caused by tattoo sticker and face paint, such as irritation when removing! People with metal allergies and children need special care

Recently there have been many kinds of tattoo stickers and face paints on the market that are easy to wear when enjoying a Halloween party, watching a sports game, etc. On the other hand, the Consumer Affairs Agency of Japan has received some reports on harmful incidents related to tattoo stickers and face paints (e.g. "My skin started to itch after applying," "I've got a scar when removing a tattoo sticker, which left a stain").

NCAC conducted a series of product tests to see if any harmful ingredient was contained, and found that some of the samples contained a few ingredients which are not allowed to be used in cosmetics.

Children, whose skin is thinner than that of adults, are more prone to skin problems than adults. Special care is needed when these products are applied to children.

Product test

NCAC examined 20 brands in total: 11 brands of tattoo stickers and 9 brands of face paints sold on websites.

Labeling and representation

Of the 20 brands, 12 brands did not show usage instructions and cautions in Japanese. Of the 8 brands showing them in Japanese, only 5 brands indicated cautions related to skin.

Of the 8 brands indicating formulation ingredients, one brand indicated two tar dyes which were not allowed to be used in cosmetics. In addition, 2 brands indicated a dye which was just allowed to be used in cosmetics not for use on mucous membranes.

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde was detected in 3 brands of tattoo stickers and 1 brand of face paints. Although the formaldehyde concentration did not reach the level to cause skin irritation immediately, long hours of contact or repeated contact may cause skin irritation or allergic contact dermatitis.

Metal

Gold, nickel, mercury, chrome and cobalt are known as metals causing a positive reaction at high rates. Two brands contained chrome, while 9 brands contained cobalt.

Advice for consumers

  • Remember that tattoo stickers and face paints are not regulated by safety standards, unlike cosmetics. Special care is needed when applying to children.
  • In case of allergic persons, carefully confirm ingredients.
  • When there's any skin problem such as scar and rash, do not apply any tattoo sticker or face paint, which may worsen symptoms.
  • Carefully read how to use, how to remove, and the target age group.
  • First test on an inconspicuous area (e.g. inside of the arm).
  • If a product disagrees with your skin, stop using it right away. Consult a dermatologist in case of abnormality (e.g. reddening, swelling, itching, pain, irritation, darkening, etc.).