Tattoos are more than they used to be—body art, they’re a method for individuals to express themselves, commemorate special events, or just have something significant to display on their skin. Although the tattooing itself is usually safe if performed by professionals, there’s still a risk that can happen, most importantly, infection.
What Happens During a Tattoo Session?
When you get tattooed, a needle pierces your skin quickly, injecting ink deep into its tissue. This is a controlled damage that triggers your immune system to start healing right away. It is normal to notice some redness, swelling, and mild pain during healing. But not all signs of your tattoo healing are part of the normal healing process.
Warning Signs of a Tattoo Infection
Some redness or tenderness is normal, particularly in the initial days. Nevertheless, you need to be careful for signs that may be indicative of an infection. Medical sources such as Medical News Today include signs like fever, chills, rashes, swelling, pus or liquid draining from the area, and skin that is hot to the touch. Infected tattoos also manifest with bumps, ulcers, or abnormal scaly textures around the site. If you notice grayish discharge or the redness starts to spread, action needs to be taken.
What Causes Tattoo Infections?
Infections usually happen when harmful bacteria or viruses find their way into the small wounds made by the tattoo needle. Staphylococcus (staph) and Streptococcus (strep) bacteria are common offenders. Sometimes, the ink itself is to blame—it might be contaminated during production or diluted with unclean water before being used, introducing pathogens straight into your skin.
Ink Quality and Studio Hygiene Matter
Even the most diligent, skilled tattoo artist can’t prevent all disasters. One of the biggest problems is that tattoo ink is not yet regulated by the FDA, so contamination may occur when it’s manufactured. The Cleveland Clinic says even sealed bottles of ink may have bacteria. Throw in other issues like dirty needles that weren’t properly sterilized or improper skin preparation, and the risk rises. That’s why cleanliness and sterilization procedures in the shop are so crucial.
How Bad Can an Infection Be?
Most infections remain localized to the skin, but if not treated, they can get out of hand in no time. What begins as a little rash or swelling can become cellulitis, abscesses, or—very rarely—life-threatening necrotizing fasciitis (also known as flesh-eating disease). In some rare cases, the infection can get into your bloodstream, resulting in sepsis, or even into your organs like your heart, so early treatment is essential.
What to Do If You Believe You’re Infected
If your tattoo is becoming more painful rather than improving, or if you see evidence such as pus, fever, or chills, don’t hesitate. It’s preferable to visit your doctor as quickly as possible. Most infections can be easily treated with antibiotics, but bad cases may involve lab work, a hospital stay, or even surgical removal of infected tissue.
How to Prevent Tattoo Infections
No technique is perfect, but there’s plenty you can do to minimize your risk. Begin by selecting a licensed, reputable tattoo artist and studio that has strict hygiene standards. They should be using sterile needles, gloves, and thoroughly cleaning their skin before beginning. Also, inquire about what type of ink they use and if it’s been stored correctly.
Once you receive your tattoo, take careful heed of your artist’s aftercare instructions. Before you touch your tattoo, wash your hands thoroughly, gently clean the tattoo with mild antibacterial soap, keep it moisturized with unscented lotion, and refrain from rubbing it against tight clothing. At night, it is generally advised to cover it up with plastic wrap to prevent damage while sleeping.
A tattoo is not only permanent art—it’s also a healing wound. Pay close attention to how it looks and feels during the days following your appointment. If something feels off, don’t brush it under the rug. Trust your instincts and get help—it’s better to err on the side of caution than to have to manage a serious infection down the line.