Whether you've just got a tattoo or have had one for a long time, tattoo infections can be both worrisome and terrifying. If you think you have an infected tattoo, first make sure that the reaction is abnormal. After that, treat the inflammation of the tattoo by cleaning the area and reducing the swelling. If you have signs of infection or inflammation and other symptoms that do not improve within two weeks, contact a medical professional for specialized treatment.
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Method 1 of 3: Treating Mild Inflammation at Home
Step 1. Apply a cold pack (ice or cooling gel) to relieve inflammation
Do not apply the product directly to the skin. Wrap the ice in a light towel before you apply it to the skin.
- Apply ice to the tattooed area for 10 minutes.
- Remove the ice for 5 minutes to rest the arm.
- Repeat this treatment 2-3 times a day as needed.
Step 2. Take an antihistamine to relieve itching
Antihistamine products such as Benadryl can relieve inflammation and itching. Always take antihistamines after meals and never take a higher dose than prescribed. However, do not take antihistamines such as Benadryl if you are allergic to them.
Step 3. Use Vaseline and a nonstick bandage to protect the tattoo
Apply a Vaseline product such as Vaseline (just a thin layer) on the tattoo. Cover the tattoo with a non-stick bandage to protect it from dirt, dust, and sun exposure. Change the vaseline and bandage every day.
If the bandage feels sticky when you try to remove it, soak the bandage in warm water first
Step 4. Soothe and treat minor skin irritations with aloe vera
Aloe vera contains substances that can relieve pain and promote skin repair. Apply aloe vera gel to the tattoo and don't cover the area until the gel dries. Reapply the gel as necessary.
Step 5. Let your tattoo "breathe" as much as possible
While you need to protect your tattoo from dirt, dust, and sunlight, it's equally important to let your tattoo breathe. The tattoo's exposure to clean cool air gives the body a chance to recover. While you are at home, remove the bandage covering your tattoo.
Step 6. See a doctor after two weeks or if your symptoms worsen
If the above methods don't relieve the inflammation or your symptoms worsen after you treat them, see your doctor or dermatologist. They may perform a skin biopsy or blood test to determine the best course of action for treating the tattoo infection.
Doctors can give antibiotics or other drugs that cannot be taken without a prescription
Step 7. Treat allergic reactions using a topical steroid ointment
Unlike infections, allergic reactions are caused by ink (usually red ink). If you notice a raised red rash that is itchy and bulging, there's a good chance you're having an allergic reaction. This kind of reaction cannot be treated with the usual treatment of infection. Treat allergic reactions with topical steroid ointments until they subside.
- As a mild topical steroid ointment, you can use Steroderm or Hufacort. For a stronger option, you can try Betason or Corsaderm.
- If you are unsure of the strength of the product you need, ask a dermatologist for advice.
Method 2 of 3: Recognizing the Symptoms of an Infected Tattoo
Step 1. See a doctor immediately if you notice any redness or blemishes
A reddish streak indicates infection and can spread. Sometimes, these stains or patterns also indicate blood poisoning known as sepsis. This pattern looks like red stripes coming out of the tattoo in various directions. Sepsis can cause serious illness so make sure you see a doctor or medical professional immediately.
Keep in mind that skin redness in general is not a symptom of blood poisoning
Step 2. Don't be surprised if you see a little blood and fluid on the healing process of the new tattoo
After getting the tattoo, blood (in small amounts) may come out within a maximum of 24 hours. While a small amount of bleeding is a normal reaction, the tattoo should not bleed too much blood or other fluid. Also be prepared to see a clear, yellowish discharge containing a small amount of blood from the tattoo within one week after the tattoo procedure.
- About a week after the tattooing process, the new tattoo will lift. At that point, the tattoo will peel off into tiny bits of colored or black ink.
- If the tattooed area oozes pus, you have an infection. Call your doctor or dermatologist to check the condition of the tattoo.
Step 3. Notice if you have fever, swelling, inflammation, or itching
The tattoo will not be painful, tender, or itchy after one week. If these symptoms persist, you may have a tattoo infection.
Method 3 of 3: Preventing Future Infections
Step 1. Get a tattoo from a licensed tattoo shop or salon
Before getting a tattoo, make sure the salon or tattoo shop is licensed and uses a clean and safe method of tattooing. All workers must wear gloves. Needles and tubes should be stored in sealed sterile packaging before use.
If you are not comfortable with the procedure of the tattoo shop/salon you visited, find another shop or salon
Step 2. Cover and protect the skin for 24 hours after getting the tattoo
This helps the tattoo to heal when the skin is at its most vulnerable and flaccid. In addition, the tattoo will be protected from dirt, dust, and sun exposure.
Step 3. Wear loose clothing that will not stick to the tattoo during the healing process
Clothes that frequently come into contact with tattoos can cause infection. If the clothing continues to stick to the tattoo, apply Vaseline to the tattoo and cover it with a bandage for about 6 months after the tattoo.
Step 4. Do not scratch or scrape the tattoo until it is fully healed
Scratching a tattoo can actually damage it and lead to infection.
Step 5. Avoid direct sun and water exposure to the tattoo for 6-8 weeks
Direct exposure to water and sunlight increases the chance of infection and the appearance of scars. When showering, cover the tattoo with plastic wrap so it doesn't get wet.
