Tattoo Infection Risks

Tattoo infection risks are real and there can be some ugly, and very costly, repercussions. Getting a tattoo can increase your risk of developing a serious skin infection, and even hepatitis C. If you're contemplating a tattoo, it's important to understand the risks involved, as well as what you can do to avoid a potentially serious tattoo infection.

Tattoo Infection Risks
Although you might imagine that a tattoo infection wouldn't be life threatening, this isn't always the case. Six clusters of skin infections with the aggressive skin bacteria MRSA were uncovered among tattoo recipients in three different states in 2004. These tattoos were performed by unlicensed tattoo artists who used unsterilized equipment. Some of the tattoo recipients required hospitalization and I.V. antibiotics.

Another serious type of infection that can occur from the use of unsterilized tattoo equipment is hepatitis C. Hepatitis C is caused by a virus that infects the liver and can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer, and even death. A study published in the journal Medicine in March 2000 showed that tattoos may be the most common way of contracting the hepatitis C virus. This sobering news certainly shows the importance of taking precautions to reduce the risk of tattoo infection.

If you understand the risks and would still like to get a tattoo, there are certain precautions you should take before and after you get one to reduce the risk of secondary infection.

First, you should make sure you're dealing with a reputable, licensed tattoo artist and a sterile tattoo parlor. In some states, tattoo artists are required to pass a health and safety exam before being allowed to administer tattoos to the public. Some states also require tattoo shops to be licensed. Be aware of the laws in your area regarding licensing of tattoo shops. You may be able to find more information about a particular tattoo parlor by calling your local health department.

Next, tour the tattoo shop where you're considering getting work done. The interior of a reputable establishment should be clean and well organized without needles, tubes and inks scattered about. Ask about sanitation practices, particularly whether a clean needle and metal tube are used for each tattoo application.

Also, inquire as to whether the inks are discarded after each use. A reputable tattoo artist will not reuse inks, needles or tubes that have been used on other customers. Make sure the tattoo artists are wearing gloves. The facility should have an autoclave, a device used for sterilization, and should practice universal precautions as established by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration. Confirm that the artist is licensed to administer tattoos.

Once you're satisfied that you're dealing with a reputable tattoo parlor and you have your appointment set up, arrive early on the day of your tattoo and watch as the needles and inks are prepared. Ask that a new package of needles and new ink bottles be opened in front of you. Be cognizant during the tattoo application that all procedures and safety precautions are being followed to reduce your risk of developing a tattoo infection.

How you take care of your new tattoo after you get home also can influence your risk of infection. You should leave the tattoo parlor with a gauze bandage applied over the tattoo; it can be removed after two hours. Once the bandage is removed, the tattooed area should be gently cleansed with an antibacterial soap and patted dry with a clean cotton cloth. Cocoa butter or an ointment with vitamins A and D can then be applied to the area. This procedure should be repeated three times a day until healing has occurred, which may take up to two weeks. It's important to avoid picking at the newly tattooed area or otherwise irritating it. Watch for signs of tattoo infection such as fever, redness, oozing of blood or pus, redness, streaking or swelling. If these symptoms occur, see your doctor right away.

By being well informed and proactive, you can make smarter choices when choosing a tattoo parlor and artist. By taking an active role in the process, you can potentially reduce the risk of developing a serious tattoo infection.