Is getting inked safe?

In the past, only people like punk rockers and bikers used get inked. Now, tattoos have become more common than ever, but that doesn’t mean we should take risks lightly. One should understand basic safety precautions and post inked care.

How it is done?

A tattoo is a permanent design or impression made on the skin with pigments inserted with the help small needle through pricks into the outer layer of the skin. Usually, the tattoo artist does it with a machine, which works more like a sewing machine, with one or more needles pricking the skin continuously.

If the process is done without using anesthetics causes a small amount of bleeding and slight pain.

Risks with getting inked  

Tattoos lead to risks such as skin infection and other complications are possible, such as:

·         Allergic reactions

Tattoo inks, especially green, red, yellow and blue can result in allergic skin reactions, including itchy rashes at the tattoo site.

·         Skin Infection

The tattoo can also give rise to skin infection.

·         Other skin complications

Sometimes bumps named as granulomas can be formed around tattoo ink.

·         Blood-borne diseases

If the tattoo machine is contaminated with infected blood, you can get different blood-borne diseases, including tetanus, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.

·         MRI complications

In some cases, tattoos or permanent makeup might lead to swelling or burning in the particular area during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If you develop an allergic reaction to the tattoo ink or an infection or other skin related problem, medication or other treated would be required.

Safety precautions

To be sure about the safe application of your tattoo, clear all the queries, including:

·         Go to the most reputable tattoo studio in your area that has only well-trained employees. Remember that regulatory requirements and licensing standards vary from one state to another. Check with your area health department for information on local regulations and licensing.

·         Check that the tattoo artists wash hands before starting the procedure and wears a new pair of safety gloves for every customer.

·         Make sure the tattoo artist takes a fresh needle and tubes from sealed packages. Even the pigments, containers or trays are unused.

·         Also check the tattoo artist sterilizes all nondisposable equipment with the help of a heat sterilization machine.

Post inked care

To avoid any kind of skin infection, one should take proper care of the tattoo till it heals. Here are few tips on post inked care:

·         Uncover the tattoo after 24 hours. Make sure to apply an antibiotic cream over the inked shin while it’s healing

·         Keep the inked skin clean to avoid any type skin infection. Use plain soap and water and gently wash the inked area.

·         Keep moisturizing the inked skin several times a day by using a mild moisturizer.

·         Keep your inked skin away from sun exposure for at least a few weeks.

·         Avoid swimming.

·         Avoid wearing anything that might stick to the tattooed skin.

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