Tattoos Risks and Precautions

ByJanis Updated

How Tattoos Are Created

Tattoo artists create tattoos by inserting ink into the skin with tools that puncture the surface repeatedly. Most artists use a small machine that moves needles quickly in and out of the skin, similar to a sewing machine. Each needle entry delivers a drop of ink into the upper layer of skin, making the design permanent.

Getting a tattoo often causes mild bleeding and discomfort. Pain levels depend on the area being tattooed and your personal tolerance. Most tattoo artists do not use numbing medicines during the process.

Step What Happens
Skin cleaning Artist cleans and sometimes shaves the area to prevent infection.
Design transfer Artist draws or stencils the design onto the skin.
Tattooing Artist uses needles to inject ink, creating the design.
Aftercare tips Artist applies a bandage and gives care instructions.

Possible Health Risks

Tattooing breaks the skin and can lead to certain health risks. Some problems show up right away, while others may take time.

  • Allergic Reactions: Tattoo inks can cause allergic responses, leading to rashes or itchiness. This can happen years after getting the tattoo. Red ink is more likely to cause allergies than other colors.

  • Skin Infections: Tattooing can cause infections if the equipment or ink isn’t clean. Infected tattoos can cause redness, swelling, pus, and pain. Studios that ignore health guidelines increase the risk.

  • Other Skin Problems: The immune system may form small lumps called granulomas around tattoo ink. Raised scars called keloids can develop, especially in people who have had keloids before.

  • Blood-Borne Diseases: Using unsterilized tools can spread serious diseases like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and MRSA.

  • MRI Side Effects: Rarely, tattoos may cause pain or swelling during MRI scans. Some tattoos can also affect MRI scan images.

  • Chronic Skin Conditions: People with eczema or psoriasis may get flare-ups or new patches in tattooed areas.

  • Complications with Tattoo Removal: Removing tattoos is harder than getting them. Laser removal takes several sessions and may leave scars.

Table: Common Tattoo Risks

Risk Signs/Symptoms How to Reduce Risk
Allergic reaction Rash, itch, swelling Choose reputable ink, test a spot
Skin infection Redness, pus, warmth, pain Use sterile equipment and clean ink
Keloids and granulomas Raised scars, lumps Avoid tattooing if prone to keloids
Hepatitis/MRSA Fever, fatigue, skin infections Sterilize tools, avoid reused needles
MRI interference Pain or heat in tattooed area Tell technician about your tattoos
Eczema/Psoriasis Red, itchy, flaky skin Discuss with doctor before tattoo

Think Carefully Before Getting Inked

Getting a tattoo is a personal choice, but you should think it through. Once ink is in your skin, removing it can be hard and may leave scars.

  • Take your time choosing the design and placement. Tattoos in certain spots can be covered with clothing. Changes in weight, such as during pregnancy, may affect the tattoo’s appearance.
  • Avoid deciding while under pressure, or while using alcohol or drugs.
  • Ask friends with tattoos for advice.
  • Think about long-term effects. Tattoos fade over time and can look different in a few years.

Checklist Before Getting Tattooed:

  • Are you sure about your design and placement?
  • Have you checked the tattoo studioโ€™s reputation and cleanliness?
  • Are you aware of any skin conditions that might affect healing?
  • Do you understand that the tattoo is permanent and may not be completely removed later?
  • Have you planned for proper aftercare to avoid infection?

Demand Good Hygiene and Safe Tattooing Practices

Protect your health by choosing a licensed professional and a studio that follows strict hygiene rules.

  1. Professional and Licensed Artists
    • Make sure the tattoo artist has proper training and certification.
    • Studios should display licenses as required by local rules.
  2. Clean Hands and Gloves
    • Artists must wash their hands and wear new, disposable gloves for every customer.
  3. Sterile Equipment
    • Artists must use needles and tubes from sealed, new packages.
    • Ink should be poured into single-use cups.
  4. Sterilization Process
    • Artists must clean any reusable instrument in a special machine called an autoclave.
    • Artists should disinfect surfaces, trays, and other items between clients.
    • Never get a tattoo from someone using a kit at home or in an unregulated space.
What to Expect Safe Practice
Artistโ€™s Clothing Clean, gloves worn during procedure
Work Area Disinfected before every client
Ink and Needles Single-use and unopened
Reused Equipment Sterilized in an autoclave machine
  • Always ask the artist to explain their cleaning routine or show how they unpack needles.
  • Check that the studio uses products meant for tattoo use.

Steps for Proper Tattoo Aftercare

Caring for your new tattoo helps prevent problems and promotes good healing. Follow any specific steps your studio recommends.

  1. Keep It Clean:
    • Gently wash the tattooed area twice daily using soap and water.
    • Avoid scrubbing; pat the area dry with a clean towel.
  2. Moisturize:
    • Apply a non-scented, mild moisturizer to prevent dryness.
    • Avoid greasy ointments or heavy creams unless advised.
  3. Protect from the Sun:
    • Keep the area covered or out of direct sunlight until healed.
    • After healing, use sunblock on your tattoo to help keep the colors bright.
  4. Avoid Water Exposure:
    • Stay out of pools, hot tubs, lakes, or rivers while healing.
    • Limit soaking in baths; quick showers are safer.
  5. Watch Clothing Choices:
    • Wear loose-fitting clothing over the tattoo area to avoid irritation.

What to Avoid

  • Do not scratch or pick at scabs or peeling skin. This can cause scarring or loss of ink.
  • Avoid covering with tight bandages after the first period unless your artist recommends it.
  • Watch for signs of infection like redness, pus, increased pain, or fever.

When to Get Medical Help

See a healthcare provider if you notice:

  • Redness, swelling, or pain that gets worse after a few days
  • Pus coming from the tattoo
  • Fever or chills

Tattoo Removal

If you decide to remove your tattoo, know that the process can be slow and may not erase the tattoo completely. Laser sessions are common, but they require several visits and may leave scars. Talk to a skin care professional about the process and risks before starting tattoo removal.

For People with Skin Conditions

If you have eczema or psoriasis, tattooing might cause flares in affected areas. Talk with a doctor about your risks before getting a tattoo.


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Health Writer

Janis's areas of expertise include nutrition, exercise, stress management, and mental health. She is passionate about educating and empowering people to take control of their health and make positive changes that can last a lifetime. Janis believes that small, sustainable changes are the key to long-term success, and she works with her clients to develop personalized plans that fit their individual needs and lifestyles.