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Tattoo Ink Infections

Tattoo infections are relatively rare, but they can be a serious problem, In addition to skin infections, tattoos can lead to serious blood-borne infections such as hepatitis

  1. Prevention

    • Before getting a tattoo, thoroughly research the tattoo shop performing the tattoo. Check for an autoclave, spore test results and sharps containers for used needles. Also, check the shop's record with your local health department.

    Considerations

    • To avoid contaminating tattoo ink, the artist should place new ink in disposable caps for each and every tattoo. He also should dispose of any leftover ink after the tattoo is completed and not put it back into the original ink bottle.

    Needles

    • The tattoo artist should use new needles straight out of a sterilized package for every new tattoo. Contaminated needles can cause blood infections and blood-borne diseases.

    Staph Infection

    • Staph infections are the most common concerning tattoos and tattoo ink, and generally are not from the tattoo ink or the tattoo itself. The staph is usually already on the body when the tattoo is performed, and the client or tattoo artist passes it to the broken, healing skin by unwashed hands.

    Allergic Reactions

    • Allergic reactions are much more common than infections when concerning tattoo ink. A tattoo artist can tattoo a small dot on the body before proceeding with the tattoo to determine a reaction. Reactions can take up to two weeks to surface, so a waiting period is needed before proceeding. On request, a tattoo artist can provide a sheet with ink ingredients for the client and her physician.

    Warning

    • Never get a tattoo from anyone in his house. Only go to clean, professional tattoo shops when considering a tattoo. Ask questions concerning sanitation, sterilization
      and licensing before going forward.

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