Austrian tests reveal hazardous chemicals in children's temporary tattoos

The Arbeiterkammer Oberösterreich and Greenpeace commissioned an independent laboratory to analyse 15 adhesive temporary tattoos marketed for children and adults. The test found 13 products not recommendable. Laboratory results identified 31 problematic chemicals, including substances prohibited in the EU, hormone‑active plasticisers, toxic heavy metals such as lead and nickel, and persistent PFAS compounds. One sample contained up to twelve different contaminants. Although individual legal limits were not exceeded, the combination of substances raises concerns about skin absorption and long‑term health effects. Greenpeace urged Minister Norbert Totschnig to impose a strong ban on PFAS and tighten overall chemical regulations. The investigation also highlighted that online retailers, including Amazon, failed to provide mandatory ingredient disclosures for the tested products.