Tattoos and other forms of body art have surged in popularity in recent years. A tattoo can serve as an expression of individuality, a way of paying tribute to a loved one or simply a form of adornment. Unfortunately, the increase in tattoos brings with it an increase in the complications that arise from them, according to the Dermatological Society of New Zealand. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration reports that adverse skin effects can occur immediately after receiving a tattoo or can appear years later.
Inflammatory Skin Reactions
The presence of metal salts contained in some tattoo ink pigments can cause redness and swelling around the areas that have been penetrated by tattoo needles. This symptom can last up to three weeks.
The FDA further notes that exposure to the sun has caused inflammation around tattoos in some people. This type of inflammation is most often associated with yellow pigmented tattoos, but can also appear in tattoos that use red pigment, as both pigments contain cadmium sulfide, which causes photosensitivity.
Allergic Skin Reactions
The Dermatological Society of New Zealand notes that allergic contact dermatitis and photoallergic dermatitis can occur as a result of hypersensitivity to tattoo pigments. These reactions manifest as a red rash, which is sometimes accompanied by scaly, flaking skin.
Skin Infections
Though uncommon, skin infections have sometimes occurred after tattooing. The Dermatological Society of New Zealand lists impetigo, cellulitis, herpes simplex and viral warts as infections that could be transmitted through the use of improperly sterilized tattoo equipment.
Kid's Health advises you to confirm that the tattoo artist is a licensed practitioner who follows the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's universal precautions and has an autoclave in the studio to properly sterilize equipment.
Aggravation of Pre-Existing Skin Conditions
If you have a pre-existing skin condition, such as eczema, it would be wise to reconsider your decision to get a tattoo. Tattoos can cause flare-ups in any pre-existing skin condition, according to Kid's Health.
Granulomas
The FDA notes that the body sometimes treats tattoo pigments as unwanted foreign substances, leading to the formation of granulomas in the tattooed area. Granulomas are raised, red bumps made up of skin cells and white blood cells. They are most commonly associated with red tattoo ink.
Lichenoid Reactions
Lichenoid reactions to tattoo ink appear as shiny, flat purple bumps covered with white lines. These are most commonly seen in the red areas of a tattoo because they are a reaction to red pigment.
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