The colours in tattoo pigments are known to fade over time. This is caused by UV radiation, causing photochemical cleavage of pigment bonds. Prior research has indicated that sunlight and laser removal of tattoos may result in the production of potentially carcinogenic and acutely toxic compounds. Furthermore, aged pigments degrade differently. This work used simulated solar light to artificially age tattoo pigments. The resulting degradation products created from ageing were compared with unaged pigments. This work will inform the debate regarding the health implications of tattooing.