What Are the Risks of Getting Tattoos?

Tattoos have been around for thousands of years dating back to Otzi the Iceman, who sported 61 tattoos over 5,000 years ago. Today, tattoos are incredibly popular, with about 30% of Americans proudly displaying some ink, according to an August 2019 Ipsos poll.

While most tattooed individuals are happy with their choices, it’s important to be aware of the potential health risks that can come with body art. From infections to delayed skin cancer diagnoses, here’s what you should know before getting a tattoo and how to protect yourself.

4 Health Risks of Tattoos

1. Infections
Bacterial infections are the most common issue following a tattoo. The process creates a wound on your skin, which can become infected if not properly cared for or if the tattoo parlor’s tools aren’t sterilized. Symptoms of infection include pain, fever, pus, or open sores, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).

More serious viral infections, like HIV or hepatitis, can occur if equipment isn’t properly sterilized, warns dermatologist Cybele Fishman, MD. Ensuring the tattoo parlor follows strict hygiene standards is crucial to minimizing these risks.

2. Allergic Reactions
Tattoos involve injecting dye into your skin, which can sometimes trigger an allergic reaction. This may happen immediately or even years later, leading to eczema-like rashes or granulomatous reactions (bumps or nodules).

Certain pigments, especially those containing nickel or other metals, may provoke severe reactions in people with allergies. About 10% of Americans are allergic to nickel, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Sun exposure can also exacerbate reactions in tattoos, known as photoallergies, so using sunscreen or covering tattoos is essential.

3. Triggering Skin Diseases
For individuals prone to certain skin conditions, tattoos may trigger flare-ups. Psoriasis, lichen planus, or keloids (excessive scar tissue) can appear in or around tattoos. If you’re prone to these conditions, it’s best to avoid tattoos to prevent complications.

4. Obscuring Melanomas
Although there is no proven link between tattoos and skin cancer, tattoos can obscure melanomas, making early detection more difficult. Melanoma is highly treatable when caught early, so it’s important to monitor any changes in or around your tattoos and consult a doctor with concerns.

What to Do Before Getting a Tattoo

While tattoos can carry risks, careful preparation and aftercare can significantly minimize them.

• Be Certain: Avoid impulsive decisions, as tattoo regret is common. While removal is possible, it’s painful, costly, and not always completely effective.

• Research the Artist: Choose a licensed, reputable tattoo artist who maintains high hygiene standards. Ensure the use of fresh needles, disinfected equipment, and gloves.

• Consider Medications: If you’re on medications like isotretinoin (used for severe acne) or blood thinners, consult your doctor before getting a tattoo. These can affect healing or increase bleeding risk.

• Follow Post-Tattoo Care: Keep your tattoo clean, moisturized, and protected from the sun. Avoid swimming, hot tubs, or picking at scabs during the healing process.

• Monitor for Complications: While mild redness and itching are normal, seek medical attention for symptoms like fever, pus, or spreading redness.

The Bottom Line

Tattoos are a personal form of expression, and millions of people get them safely each year. But understanding the risks and taking precautions is essential to protect your health.

Celebrate creativity and innovation while prioritizing safety. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed about health and wellness.