An analysis of 15 commercially available tattoo inks in Australia revealed the presence of toxic metals and carcinogens including arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead and toluidine at levels well in excess of European limits. Using liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry, the researchers tested eight black and seven color ink samples. They found that antimony, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, selenium and tin contained levels more than four times higher than those set by European Union regulations. None of the tested inks met EU regulatory standards. Australia does not currently have binding limits on the composition of tattoo inks, which poses a safety concern for people getting tattoos. The researchers stressed that people should be informed about what substances are contained in the inks when they are injected under the skin.