Tattoo Blisters

Blisters are small skin lesions caused by fluid collecting under dead or damaged skin layers, leading to blisters. Common causes of blisters include injuries, allergic reactions, and infections. Blisters typically heal quickly without leaving scars behind. If a blister breaks open, cover the area immediately with gauze or bandages to prevent disease and monitor for signs of infection such as increased warmth, swelling, redness, drainage or pus formation, and pain in that area.

Causes of Blisters

Blisters are tiny sacs filled with fluid that form beneath a damaged layer of skin. This fluid contains water and proteins exuding from injured tissues. Blistering occurs most frequently following burns, frostbite, excessive friction, or trauma to the skin. Blisters may form in only the skin’s outer layers (epidermis) or may spread across other parts of the body. They usually heal independently, but you should be aware of any possible signs of infection. If a red, itchy, or swollen rash accompanied by blistering occurs, seek medical advice immediately. Doctors may prescribe antibiotics such as Bacitracin or Neosporin to help speed up healing time after receiving a tattoo infection, speeding the rate at which wounds heal. When blistered areas arise, a cold compress should be applied to relieve pain and swelling and accelerate healing processes. Do this several times each day to speed up healing times. Picking at or scratching your tattoo is also not recommended, as this could damage its ink and worsen its appearance. Picking also causes more harm by breaking off bits of ink that end up on your skin, causing additional problems.

Treatment

Tattoo blisters are a common side effect of laser tattoo removal and usually appear between 8-72 hours following treatment sessions and can last for two weeks or more. Epidermolysis Bullosa, Lupus, Pemphigus, and Porphyria can cause fragile skin to be more prone to blistering than others. People suffering from such diseases should follow proper aftercare instructions after removing their tattoos and avoid popping or picking at any blisters that form after removing them. Suppose the affected area feels hot or itchiness is extreme. In that case, calling your tattoo artist immediately for an appointment is essential so they can check for signs of infection and treat accordingly. Untreated conditions may require medical intervention immediately and leave serious consequences requiring immediate medical personnel care.

Home Care

Swellings typically go away independently; however, a broken blister requires medical attention. Swellings could also be a telltale sign that your tattoo isn’t healing correctly, so if it has lesions, pus, or redness around it, it should also be examined by a physician immediately. Infection can be detrimental when it comes to laser tattoo removal procedures. To minimize infection risks after laser treatment has taken place, follow these tips for home care following laser tattoo removal: