Tattoo inks contain unhealthy levels of toxic metals, suit claims.(California)

About 40 million Americans have tattoos because they like the look, but this decorative feature may have some unattractive consequences. The ink used in dermal implantation exposes consumers to potentially unhealthy levels of lead and seven other metals, according to a lawsuit filed in Los Angeles Superior Court by the California nonprofit American Environmental Safety Institute (AESI). (American Environmental Safety Institute v. Huck Spaulding Enterprises, Inc., No. BC319440 (Cal., Los Angeles County Super. Ct. filed Aug. 2, 2004).)

The complaint alleges that Huck Spaulding Enterprises and nine other tattoo ink and pigment manufacturers, distributors, and sellers failed to warn California residents about their exposure to hazardous materials as required by state …