Tattooing involves puncturing the skin barrier to deposit pigment into the dermis. This process inherently carries a risk of introducing pathogens like bacteria, viruses, or fungi, leading to an infection. Given the popularity of body art, the potential for a tattoo infection is a frequent concern. Understanding what a true infection looks like and its statistical likelihood is important for anyone considering getting inked.
How Often Do Infections Occur?
The likelihood of experiencing an infectious complication from a tattoo is relatively low. Studies show prevalence ranges from approximately 0.5% to 6% of people who get tattoos. This wide range is attributed to factors like underreporting and different study definitions.
This percentage includes various complications, not just severe bacterial infections. Many reported complications are localized allergic reactions to the ink pigment or non-infectious inflammatory responses. The low-end figure of 0.5% is often considered a more accurate reflection of serious, medically documented bacterial infections.
Is It Infected or Just Healing?
Distinguishing between normal healing and a true infection is crucial. A newly tattooed area shows signs of normal wound healing, including mild swelling, tenderness, and redness that peaks within the first 48 hours and then rapidly subsides. Over the next few days, the tattoo will begin to peel and form thin scabs as the outermost layer of damaged skin sheds.
Signs of a bacterial infection are distinct and progressive. The pain will intensify instead of decreasing, and the surrounding redness or swelling will worsen or spread outward after the first few days. Definitive indicators of infection include pus (thick, yellowish, or greenish discharge) or a foul odor emanating from the site. Systemic symptoms, such as a fever or chills, also signal a spreading pathogen.
Where Do Tattoo Infections Come From?
Infections can originate from contamination at the tattoo studio or during the subsequent aftercare period. Contaminated equipment is a primary source, often involving the reuse of needles or failure to sterilize non-disposable items like the needle tube. Pathogens can also be introduced via the artist’s workspace or the use of non-sterile water to dilute inks.
The tattoo ink itself is another significant source. Studies show that even sealed containers of ink can be contaminated with bacteria, including Mycobacterium chelonae. Once an ink bottle is opened, it can become contaminated by the environment or by mixing with non-sterile water. During the healing phase, the client’s environment also poses a risk if the fresh wound is exposed to dirty hands, clothing, or pet dander.
Essential Steps for Reducing Your Risk
Prevention starts with selecting a reputable, licensed tattoo artist who adheres to strict hygiene protocols. Before the procedure, confirm the artist opens new, pre-packaged needles and uses single-use ink caps for the pigment. Ask about their sterilization procedures for non-disposable equipment, such as whether they use an autoclave.
Meticulous aftercare is the single most significant factor under the client’s control to reduce risk. The tattoo should be washed gently two to three times a day using clean hands and a mild, unscented soap, then patted dry with a clean paper towel. Applying a thin layer of an approved, unscented moisturizing ointment helps the skin barrier remain intact without encouraging bacterial growth.
It is necessary to avoid submerging the new tattoo in water for the first few weeks of healing, meaning no swimming in pools, hot tubs, or baths. Soaking the wound can introduce environmental bacteria and soften scabs, making the site vulnerable to infection. Also, protect the tattoo from direct sun exposure and avoid picking at any flaking skin or scabs, which can re-open the wound.
Recognizing When to Seek Professional Care
Any suspicion of an infection should prompt an immediate consultation with a healthcare provider. Specific “red flag” symptoms require urgent medical attention because they indicate a potentially severe or spreading infection.
Systemic Symptoms
A fever accompanied by chills or shaking suggests the infection has entered the bloodstream.
Localized Spreading
The presence of red streaks radiating outward from the tattoo toward the nearest lymph nodes can signal a condition like lymphangitis.
Severe Pain and Swelling
Severe, unrelenting pain or swelling that prevents movement of the tattooed limb also warrants an urgent medical visit.
Treatment for bacterial infections typically involves a course of oral antibiotics. Severe cases may require intravenous antibiotics or surgical drainage of an abscess.