Programme
Please download the PDF to read the entire programme of the WCTP 2025.
Session descriptions
Opening
This session will address the evolution of tattoos, from symbols of propitiatory rites and
belonging to specific groups to powerful tools of self-identification, body art, permanent make-up and objects of concerns about their safety addressed by regulators
Tattoo/PMU ink toxicology: in vivo/in vitro studies and biodistribution
To uncover the potential risk of tattoo and permanent make up inks, experimental studies on both - the hazards of ink ingredients and the uptake into the body - must be studied.
Confirmed speaker:
- Marianne Vitipon, LCBM University Bordeaux, France
- Ines Schreiver, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Germany
Tattoo/PMU-related allergies immunotoxicology
Changing the ink composition can also change reactions to tattoos and PMU, but unwanted immunological reactions still occur. The current state of research to find the responsible allergens is presented here. Other effects on the immune system are also discussed.
Confirmed speaker:
- Santiago F. González, Institute for Biomedical Research, Switzerland
- Katherina Siewert, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Germany
- Steffen Schubert, Information Network of Departments of Dermatology, Germany
Unwanted effects and laser removal
The increasing incidence of PMU and tattoo applications also increases the demand of laser removal. Next to an overview of the current state of laser removal, also causes and removal of blur-out will be discussed.
Clinical insights of tattoo complications and epidemiology
Recent studies on the cancer epidemiology on tattoos raised concerns among those effected and health care authorities. The current state of knowledge and upcoming studies will be presented and discussed.
Confirmed speaker:
- Milena Foerster, International Agency for Research on Cancer, France
Chemical analysis of tattoo inks: a step further and challenges
Market surveillance of tattoo & PMU ink composition shall be discussed with a focus on main challenges, control approaches of selected EU Member States and measures aimed at contributing to the enforcement of REACH restriction.
Confirmed speaker:
- John Swierk, Binghamton University, USA
Analytics: Market Surveillance
Development of analytical methods and their harmonisation are crucial to guarantee
reproducible results, ensure comparable health protection and avoid divergent enforcement among EU Member States. This session will address existing technology, analytical methods and challenges to detect chemicals according to the provisions set by the REACH restriction entry 75.
Confirmed speaker:
- Urs Hauri
Chemical microbiological risks of tattoo/PMU inks
Microbial contaminations of opened and unopened inks are frequently reported. In this session, extend and potential hazards of such contaminants shall be discussed.
Tattoo Apprenticeship
Insights into training requirements, chemical risks and hygienic and sanitary measures for the application of tattoo inks and for aftercare and other aspects for the training of tattoo and PMU artists
Psychological aspects of tattooing
Confirmed speaker:
- Stacie Becker, The University of Central Florida