Tattoo Itching – A Common Side-Effect of Getting a Tattoo

Tattooing often produces itching as your body responds to healing the wounds created during the process. The itching usually lasts two or three weeks before recovering, and all skin/scabs have come off ultimately. Remember not to pick at it to prevent infections and scarring.

Causes

Some individuals experience itching from tattoos unrelated to their design or the ink, such as psoriasis or eczema. If the itching persists and includes other symptoms, visiting their physician is wise.

Scarring can also contribute to tattoo itchiness and swelling, typically occurring when exposed to changing humidity levels, such as during winter when dry air dries out skin cells.

Rarely, an allergic reaction to the pigments used in Tattoos may cause itching and red rashes around tattoos that last months or years after getting them. Suppose fever, chills, and hives accompany the itching. In that case, it is wise to seek medical assistance immediately, as this could require either using a steroid ointment or removing the tattoo altogether.

Treatment

Though itching is part of the healing process, if it becomes bothersome, you should attempt to soothe it with cool compresses or wash it with soapy water and clothing. A topical ointment specifically intended for Tattoos will also provide moisture while acting as an extra protection barrier against irritation.

If you suffer from an existing skin condition like eczema or psoriasis, tattoo irritation can spark a flare-up of symptoms. Red, bumpy patches on your skin may form with itching that requires medications prescribed by a doctor to alleviate.

Some individuals experience allergic reactions to tattoo ink pigments. This can result in red scaly patches on the skin and itching, although typically short-lived. If your response becomes severe enough, a physician might run tests and prescribe steroids orally or through injection; sarcoidosis – an autoimmune disease – could also irritate this area around a tattoo.

Prevention

Itchiness may be caused by several factors, some of which can be avoided or managed. People suffering from eczema or skin conditions that lead to inflammation should use moisturizers containing anti-itch ingredients as a preventive measure against itching. Tattoos may also itch due to medications or medical issues like diabetes, HIV infection, joint replacement surgery, or sarcoidosis causing irritation.

If the tattoo itching is not due to skin conditions, it could be an allergic reaction from the ink used. This reaction often happens within weeks or years after getting one done, most commonly with red and yellow inks but possibly with any color used for tattooing.

A way to prevent allergic reactions from Tattoos is using lotion or cream made specifically for tattoos, which will be unscented and help keep skin hydrated and healthy. People with Tattoos should also limit sun exposure to minimize UV damage to the tattooed areas.

Symptoms

Tattoo itching is usually mild and does not necessitate medical care unless accompanied by other symptoms, such as reddening and swelling of your skin. However, immediate medical assistance must be sought to avoid more severe consequences such as breathing reactions or stomachache if this is the case for you.

Signs of severe allergies in an older tattoo could include irritation and pus discharge; such symptoms should be addressed quickly with antibiotics or medication from your physician.

Some preexisting skin conditions, like eczema or psoriasis, may become apparent in the area around your tattoo. When this occurs, consult a dermatologist who may recommend an over-the-counter cream to soothe itchy skin. Furthermore, regular moisturization will help avoid itchy skin due to temperature changes, but ensure you use fragrance-free and hypoallergenic lotions/creams specifically meant for tattoos.