A tattoo can be incredibly personal and beautiful to commemorate a special event or express your personality. Still, like any other body art, it can also be susceptible to infection. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that about 10% of all tattoos are infected with bacteria, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause skin infections such as boils and abscesses. While some people may experience minor discomfort or redness following a tattoo session, more serious cases can lead to pneumonia and sepsis.
Causes of an itchy tattoo
Infection
Tattoos can be a very personal part of someone's body and often serve as a symbol of their identity. However, tattoos can also be a target for infection. An itchy tattoo is one of the most common types of infection. There are several reasons why an itchy tattoo might become infected, including exposure to bacteria, improper wound healing, and contact with other skin oils or sweat. Suppose you experience any infection, redness, swelling, or pain. It is important to see a doctor as soon as possible to determine the cause and treat the problem.
Allergic reaction to the pigment
It is not uncommon for people to develop an allergic reaction to the pigment in tattoos. This can occur when the tattoo pigment enters the person's skin through an open wound or via contact with saliva, blood, or other body fluids. An allergic reaction can cause itchiness, hives, swelling, and even difficulty breathing. An allergic reaction to tattoos can lead to serious health complications if untreated.
Ink contamination
Many people get tattoos because they like how they look, but many also get tattoos because they are afraid of getting an infection. It is estimated to be primarily due to ink contamination. Ink contamination can come from various sources, including dirty equipment, unclean hands and surfaces, and poor sanitation.
One of the most common causes of an itchy tattoo is ink contamination. Ink is made up of small particles, and when applied to the skin, it can cause an allergic reaction in some people. When this occurs, the person's body produces antibodies to fight the infection.
Pre-existing skin conditions
A variety of pre-existing skin conditions cause itchy tattoos. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Hyperhidrosis: This condition in which excessive sweating causes an itching sensation on the skin.
- Eczema: This chronic inflammatory skin disorder can cause an itchy tattoo.
- Rosacea: This common skin condition can lead to redness, flushing, and irritation around the nose and cheeks.
- Seborrheic dermatitis: This is an autoimmune skin condition that causes red, greasy patches on the forehead, cheeks, chin, or neck.
- Psoriasis: This chronic autoimmune disease affects the skin and can cause an itchy tattoo.
Sarcoidosis
An itchy tattoo is often a sign of something more serious, such as sarcoidosis. This rare disease is caused by an overgrowth of cells in the lungs and can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and fever. It can also lead to an itchy tattoo. If you think you may have sarcoidosis, talk to your doctor.
Treating an itchy tattoo
OTC creams and ointments
If you are experiencing an itchy tattoo, a few OTC creams and ointments can help soothe the irritation. These products include hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion, and petroleum jelly. Apply the product to the affected area twice daily until the itchiness subsides. If the itching is severe, talk to your doctor about prescription medications that may work better for you.
Cool compresses
If you're experiencing an itchy tattoo, you can do a few things to help relieve the pain and inflammation. One way is to cool the area with cold compresses. This will help reduce swelling and redness. You can also use over-the-counter antihistamines or creams to soothe the skin.
Keep the area moisturised
There are many ways to treat an itchy tattoo. One common method is to keep the area moisturised. A good moisturiser can soothe and protect the skin while also helping remove any dead skin cells contributing to the itch. If the itch is severe, you may need to see a dermatologist for treatment.
Oatmeal bath
If you are experiencing an itchy tattoo that is not going away with conventional treatments such as topical ointments or creams, consider trying a homemade oatmeal bath. This remedy is gentle on the skin and can be used to treat old and new tattoos.
To make the oatmeal bath:
- Mix two cups of water and one cup of oatmeal into a large bowl.
- Soak your tattooed area in the mixture for 15 minutes, then rinse with cool water.
- Apply a moisturiser after bathing to help keep your skin hydrated.
This remedy is especially helpful if the itchy tattoo is due to yeast or fungus. If you have tried other treatments that have not worked, give this one a try before turning to harsher remedies like medical procedures or laser treatments.
When to see a doctor
If you are experiencing intense itching or inflammation from a new tattoo, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. The doctor can help identify the cause of the problem and prescribe the appropriate treatment. There are a few things that you can do on your own to try and reduce the itchiness, but ultimately seeing a doctor is essential to ensure that your tattoo does not become infected.
Conclusion
In conclusion, you can do a few things to help stop your tattoo from itching. Be sure to keep it clean and dry, avoid rubbing it, use a moisturiser if needed, and apply an anti-itch cream every couple of hours during the day or as needed. Finally, if the itch is unbearable, seek medical attention.
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FAQs
How long does it take for the itching to stop after a tattoo?
Typically, the itching will subside within a few days or weeks. It may take a little longer for some people, but most will experience relief within two to four weeks. If the itching persists or gets worse, consult with your doctor.
Can I rub my tattoo if it itches?
Some say that the oils and sweat from your hands will irritate the ink and make the itch worse, while others say it's okay to rub the tattoo in a circular motion. It depends on your skin type and how sensitive your tattoo is.
Can I put anti-itch cream on my tattoo?
Many people have tattoos, and some might experience an itchy sensation when exposed to something that irritates the skin, such as sweat or other substances. If you are experiencing an itchy tattoo, you can try using anti-itch cream or applying a topical ointment to the area.
