Everyone's bodies react differently to foreign substances. In the same way that you might get an allergic reaction to metal or lotion, you can potentially break out after getting a tattoo. While you can't change the way you are, you can take time to get to know your body and ultimately reduce the risk of these sometimes painful and awkward post- ink experiences.
30 percent of people feel the burn
A 300-person study conducted by the New York University School of Medicine and published in the journal Contact Dermatitis found tattoo reactions to be common and unpredictable. As NPR reported, researchers asked park-goers about this topic and learned that 31 people or 10 percent of participants had a bad reaction to a tattoo.
"31 people or 10% of participants had a bad reaction to a tattoo."
"Nobody knows how common these things are," said Dr. Marie Leger, an assistant professor in the Ronald O. Perelman department of dermatology at New York University School of Medicine, as quoted bytold NPR. "I was really curious."
It's important to note, however, that many health experts are reluctant to tie averse reactions to tattoos because they can stem from a number of factors. That said, here are a few scenarios that can unfold after you get a tattoo, as highlighted by the Mayo Clinic.
- Allergic reactions: Red, blue, yellow and green dyes in particular can cause an allergic reaction and make the skin itchy. Even if you got your tattoo a few years ago, this is still a possible risk.
- More skin issues: Additionally, a tattoo can lead to an infection or a keloid, which is a raised area of skin.
- Disease: Because tattoos are applied with a needle, there is a risk of transmitting bloodborne diseases like tetanus.
Your skin could develop an itchy rash after you get a tattoo.
In mild cases, you can potentially treat a post-ink rash with an over-the-counter cream. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, you can apply a water-based cream to the tattooed area if it feels dry. However, if the problem seems to be more severe, it's wise to see a dermatologist.
You may even benefit from visiting a dermatologist prior to your tattoo appointment, as he or she might provide you with helpful information regarding your skin. A healthcare professional can also offer opinions on whether a tattoo would trigger skin conditions such as psoriasis.
If you've had a bad reaction to a tattoo and it's changed the overall look of it, you don't have to experience tattoo regret for a day longer. Laser tattoo removal can take care of unwanted ink in just a few sessions.
Over 45 million US adults* are living with tattoos, but now permanent ink can be a thing of the past. PicoSure® is the world's latest breakthrough technology in laser tattoo removal providing faster results in fewer treatments. Visit www.picosurear.wpengine.com to learn more and find a PicoSure Practitioner near you. * Source: Harris Interactive, 2012
