Most people don’t think about the possibility of getting a tattoo infection, but it is a very real risk. Infections can occur in the days or weeks after you get your tattoo and can be extremely painful. If you think you might have an infected tattoo, it’s important to see a doctor immediately.
In this article, we’ll cover the signs and symptoms of tattoo infection and some of the most common causes. We’ll also provide some tips on how to prevent infections in the first place, and
What is Tattoo Infection?
A tattoo infection is a serious complication that can occur after getting a tattoo. While most infections are minor and can be treated at home, some can become life-threatening. It’s important to know the signs and symptoms of tattoo infection, as well as how to prevent one in the first place.
The most common type of infection associated with tattoos is cellulitis, which is a bacterial skin infection. Cellulitis often occurs when there is a break in the skin, such as a cut or scrape. When these breaks in the skin occur during a tattoo procedure, bacteria can enter and cause an infection.
What are the Signs of Tattoo Infection?
There are several signs and symptoms that may indicate your tattoo is infected. If you experience any of the following, it’s important to see a doctor right away:
#1 Redness, swelling, and warmth around the tattoo
If your tattoo is infected, you may notice that the area is redder, warmer, and more swollen than it was in the days immediately after you got the tattoo. The skin may also be painful to touch.
#2 Pus or discharge from the tattoo
You may also see pus or discharge coming from your tattoo. This is often a sign of a more serious infection and requires immediate medical attention.
#3 Fever
A fever can be a sign of a serious infection. If you have a fever along with any of the other symptoms listed above, it’s important to see a doctor right away.
#4 Increased pain
If your tattoo is infected, you may notice that it’s more painful than it was in the days immediately after you got it. The pain may be constant or may come and go.
#5 Swollen lymph nodes
If the infection is spreading, you may notice that your lymph nodes are swollen. This is often a sign of a more serious infection and requires immediate medical attention.
Related: How Long To Keep Second Skin On Tattoo?
What Causes Tattoo Infections?
There are several things that can increase your risk of getting a tattoo infection. These include:
#1 Not following aftercare instructions
It’s important to follow all aftercare instructions when you get a tattoo. This includes keeping the area clean and dry, as well as applying an antibiotic ointment if recommended by your artist. Not doing so can increase your risk of infection.
#2 Getting a tattoo from an unsanitary studio
If the tattoo studio is not clean or sterile, you’re at increased risk of infection. Make sure to do your research and only get a tattoo from a reputable studio.
#3 Having a weakened immune system
If you have a weakened immune system, you’re at increased risk of infection. This includes people with HIV/AIDS, cancer, and diabetes. If you have a weakened immune system, it’s important to take extra care to avoid infections.
How to Prevent Tattoo Infections?
There are several things you can do to prevent a tattoo infection, including
#1 Choose a reputable studio
Make sure to do your research and choose a reputable tattoo studio. This is the most important thing you can do to prevent an infection.
#2 Follow aftercare instructions
Be sure to follow all aftercare instructions, including keeping the area clean and dry and applying an antibiotic ointment is recommended.
#3 Don’t pick or scratch at the tattoo
Picking or scratching at the tattoo can damage the skin and increase your risk of infection. If the tattoo starts to itch, resist the urge to scratch it.
What Are The Treatments For Tattoo Infection?
If you think your tattoo is infected, it’s important to see a doctor right away. Treatment will depend on the severity of the infection. In most cases, tattoo infections can be treated with antibiotics. More serious infections may require hospitalization and IV antibiotics.
#1 Antibiotics
If your tattoo is infected, you will likely need to take antibiotics. This can be in the form of pills, creams, or ointments. Be sure to take the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor.
#2 Hospitalization
In some cases, a more serious infection may require hospitalization. This is usually the case if the infection has spread to other parts of the body or if you have a weakened immune system. If you are hospitalized, you will likely need to take IV antibiotics.
#3 Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected tissue. This is usually only the case in severe infections.
Conclusion
Tattoo infections are relatively rare but can be serious. If you think your tattoo is infected, it’s important to see a doctor right away. Treatment will depend on the severity of the infection, but most can be treated with antibiotics. More serious infections may require hospitalization and IV antibiotics.
Related: Tattoo Safety Tips: 10 Important Considerations
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