Tattoo Infection: Signs and Treatment

Cellulitis is a skin infection that produces inflammation and redness in the skin. This skin infection is known as a systemic infection because it affects more than one portion of your body at the same time. Cellulitis may be caused by various bacteria, which can enter the bloodstream and spread to other body regions. If you suspect cellulitis, see a doctor as soon as possible so the infection may be adequately identified and treated; otherwise, it might develop into fatal complications.

Bacteria, most often staphylococcus, bring on a common skin condition called impetigo. It often results in a rash that resembles pimples and covers the face and neck, although it may also affect other body regions. Due to its high contagiousness, impetigo may be passed from one person to another through kissing or sharing towels or utensils. If you feel you may have impetigo, schedule a visit with your doctor as soon as possible for treatment.

This particular kind of skin infection happens when an infection in one region of the body travels through the bloodstream to other sections of the body and produces inflammation there. It is one of the types of skin infections that may happen. Tattoos and other body piercings are potential risk factors for developing sepsis, and this is particularly true for those with compromised immune systems.

It’s crucial to research before choosing a location for your new tattoo since it’s a huge choice. Many individuals decide to have their tattoos done by a friend or family member who already has some background in the tattooing industry. This is risky since the majority of individuals lack the appropriate skills to provide you with a tattoo that is both safe and healthy for you to have.

It’s more probable to develop wound infections if you don’t maintain cleanliness around your tattoo. You should wash it twice daily with antibacterial soap and water for the first two weeks after receiving your tattoo. Next, wash it every day for the next two months. Make sure to rewash it within two hours after working out or sweating hard if you’re doing either during this period.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate tattoo ink. Even containers marked “sterile” can have bacteria and other substances in them. Contamination can happen after the ink leaves the manufacturer, even if the container is sealed.

Reactions can also stem from the ink itself. Ink is often made from or includes substances that may be harmful, including:

Animal-based additives.

Calligraphy ink.

Chemicals, such as pH stabilizers and coating agents.

Metal salts.

Pigments used in printer toner and car paint.

You are more prone to get an infection from your tattoo if your immune system is already weak. For instance, you could be more likely to get a skin infection after having a tattoo if you have diabetes or cancer. Most infections may be managed before they become severe. Your immune system won’t be as effective at fighting off infections, however, if any of the conditions mentioned earlier compromises it.

The signs of tattoo infection include:

Redness: Along with other symptoms, redness shows that your body is fighting against an infection.

Fever: A fever may be brought on by various conditions, but if you have one along with other signs of tattoo infection, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Chills: Another sign that your immune system is malfunctioning has the chills.

Increased Swelling: Swelling occurs when more blood than expected flows into the tattooed region, which may cause inflammation and swell at the wound site and in the lymph nodes close by (small glands throughout the body).

Pain: This symptom should also be discussed with your doctor. Pain may indicate inflammation or irritation in the skin around your tattoo region. Still, if it continues beyond two days, it may show something more severe.

How do you treat an infected tattoo?

Antibiotics are a common treatment for tattoo infections. Depending on the diagnosis and severity, it may take multiple antibiotics to clear the infection. Many people need to be on these drugs for up to six weeks.

For severe infections, intravenous (IV) antibiotics may be necessary. Surgery may also be required for infections that don’t respond to antibiotics. It can take more than one procedure to remove all the affected skin.

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