What are the risks of getting a tattoo?

A tattoo is a type of body modification where a person uses a needle to inject ink, pigment, or dye into the skin’s dermis layer. Although tattooing has grown more popular and Ink Fanatic Tattoo Studio complications are rare, there are still health risks with these procedures. Before a person gets a tattoo, it is important they consider the risks, how to prepare for one, and how to take care of it.

In this article, we cover the potential health risks of tattoos, and provide tips for people considering their first tattoo. Health risks Selecting a licensed tattoo parlor can help minimize the health risks of getting a tattoo. Getting a tattoo carries several health risksTrusted Source that a person may wish to consider.

These include: Allergies A person may have an allergic reaction to the ink pigment. Research suggests that certain red pigmentsTrusted Source may be more likely to cause an allergic reaction. Keloids A keloid is an enlarged scar that resembles a bump on the skin. It consists of extra scar tissue and can occur from trauma on the skin.

As the tattoo needle pierces the surface, it can cause tiny injuries, where keloids may develop. Infections An infection may occur if bacteriaTrusted Source or viruses enter the broken skin after a tattoo session. This may occur immediately after a person gets a tattoo, or in the subsequent days or weeks while the skin heals.

Signs of tattoo infection include: depending on skin tone, the area may appear red, dark brown or purple bumpy or raised skin swelling pain rash itchiness In more extreme cases, a person may experience a fever, open sores, or pus on or around the tattoo.