Initial itching after getting a tattoo is common, but severe or persistent itching could be a telltale sign of infection, which could spread to other parts of the body without treatment. If you detect signs of infection, you must visit your physician immediately and start antibiotic treatment immediately.
Redness
Some redness, pain, and/or itchiness following tattooing is expected in the first few days post-inking; if those symptoms continue or worsen over time, it could be a telltale sign of infection. Staphylococcus aureus infections, the most prevalent strain, typically respond to an antimicrobial treatment course of seven-to-14 to fourteen days of oral antibiotics; however, longer-term treatment might be necessary for MRSA or mycobacterial infections. Though a mild disease treated quickly won’t damage your tattoo, leaving an infection untreated can have serious repercussions that alter its visual appeal and even become life-threatening (sepsis or flesh-eating infections have occurred due to untreated Tattoos in rare instances). Most conditions can be avoided simply by following the instructions from your physician regarding proper care of tattoos.
Bleeding
Tattoos will naturally produce blood, ink, and plasma for several days after getting one – this is perfectly normal. However, if you experience significant bleeding or foul-smelling discharge from your tattoo site, see your physician immediately – they may swab the area or lance pus pockets as needed before prescribing antibiotics based on how severe an infection might be. If the lymph nodes near an infected tattoo start swelling, this indicates a severe illness, potentially resulting in sepsis – a potentially life-threatening condition. Discolored streaks that radiate from it may indicate blood poisoning requiring immediate medical treatment as soon as possible. Bunick notes that infections caused by Staph bacteria typically respond well to oral antibiotic therapy of seven days; MRSA infections require more extended antibiotic treatment as they have become resistant. Surgery or drainage of infected areas may be necessary in rare instances.
Crusty/Oozy Skin
Tattoo inks are made by mixing water and pigment to achieve various colors, and unclean conditions may result in staphylococcus bacterial infections or mycobacterial bacteria infections, which could become life-threatening without prompt treatment. New Tattoos often develop scabs and itches after application, but excessive scabbing or oozing could indicate illness. Never pick at scabs or scratch the area; always wash your hands before touching your tattoo and applying moisturizers or ointments. Messick advises inquiring of tattoo artists regarding the type of ink and sterilization practices they utilize, in addition to wearing gloves at all times and cleaning the skin with sterile wipes before, during, and after tattooing to prevent contamination. He further suggests taking precautionary steps, such as getting Hepatitis B and C vaccinations, as blood-borne viruses are potential sources of infection.
Fever/Thirst
Tattoo-related pain and swelling are expected; anything beyond what would typically be experienced could be an early indicator of infection. Suppose pain worsens instead of subsiding over time. In that case, rash/bump development increases or intensifies significantly, or you experience fever with hot/cold chills and pus oozing from the site, seek medical advice immediately. Dermatologists can examine or lance a pus pocket to identify which bacteria are causing an infection and prescribe antibiotics to clear it up quickly and thoroughly. More severe conditions may require IV treatment. An acute infection treated promptly should not damage your tattoo, but if the bacteria spread into deeper layers of skin, they may lead to scarring that alters its visual appeal. Hiring a licensed and reputable tattoo artist, adhering to their aftercare instructions, and sterilizing all equipment used during your session will significantly decrease your risk for infection.
