Ayoung Mount Gambier researcher is undertaking a significant study in Adelaide.


Flinders University PhD candidate Ben Boyle, 25, is launching a study looking at the possible health risks involved with laser tattoo removal including exposure to cancer-causing chemicals.


The study involves collecting urine samples from participants for three days after tattoo removal to see if any potential toxic chemicals from the destroyed tattoo ink can be detected.


Participants will be paid $50 for their contribution.


According to McCrindle Research, one third of Australians with tattoos say they regret, to some extent, getting a tattoo while a further one in seven have commenced or looked into tattoo removal.


Mr Boyle said those seeking to remove their tattoos with laser treatments are often unaware of the potential health effects.


“Tattoo removal specialists target the colours in tattoos (pigments) with lasers, which break down into smaller compounds, known as degradation products,” he said.


“The body’s immune system clears away these compounds and are eventually excreted through the urine.


“There is limited research looking at what these compounds are – the few published studies have indicated these compounds can be potentially toxic.


“This project is seeking volunteers to collect urine before and after laser tattoo removal for the purpose of detecting degradation compounds of tattoos.


“The analysis of your urine samples will help understand how tattoos breakdown with laser removal.”


Mr Boyle said participants sharing their experiences will help to make a meaningful impact on the tattoo removal process.


“Your contribution will help inform the public on the implications of tattoos and their removal,” he said.


“This may include performing laser treatments over more sessions at lower intensities to reduce the concentration of degradation compounds a patient is exposed to in a single session.”


Contact tattooremoval@flinders.edu.au for further information.