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This Doesn't Look Too Good...

A Guide to Handling Infection

So you've followed your artist's advice and your piercing or tattoo doesn't look so great? Here's a quick guide to what can go wrong and what to do about it. Remember, a good rule of thumb is to always notify your artist or piercer first when you experience complications.

Tattoo Problems

Infection

This is the one thing you absolutely do not want to happen to a healing tattoo. All of the precautions you take during the healing process are aimed at avoiding an infection. Infections can destroy your tattoo and leave lasting damage to your skin.

Signs of infection include:

Bullet Point An excessively red and swollen tattoo that is hot to the touch
Bullet Point Presence of some green or yellow pus/discharge that is smelly and painful
Bullet Point Red streaks extending from the area
Bullet Point Swollen or tender lymph nodes
Bullet Point Fever

An untreated infected tattoo can lead to a blood infection, so it is something that needs to be addressed immediately. Do not pass GO, do not collect $200--head straight to your tattoo artist to confirm if the tattoo is, in fact, infected. If infection is present, go directly to your doctor.

To combat an infection, a physician will most likely prescribe an antibiotic and possibly order a blood test to make sure your blood isn’t also infected. You can also use Bacitracin, A&D Ointment or Neosporin, and try your best to keep the tattoo as dry as possible until the infection has healed.

While infections can be a sign of a bigger problem like Hepatitis C, don’t panic. It’s a lot more likely to be just a simple infection that can be taken care of with a few days of medication.

Adverse Reactions

When all aftercare guidelines have been followed, adverse reactions are much more common than serious tattoo infections. Most reactions are minor, with symptoms like continued itching, intermittent crusting, and possible scarring. Some people are allergic to the ink used in tattoos and can have scarring. Be sure to go to your tattoo artist first if you think you are having an adverse reaction; you may simply have an irritated tattoo from over washing or over-moisturizing. Do this before attempting to self-medicate.


Piercing Problems

Infection

While piercing is a more localized wound, signs of infection should still be taken seriously. Remember, if you have any issues or concerns during the healing process, always contact your certified piercer first.

Signs of infection include:

Bullet Point A piercing site that is hot to the touch
Bullet Point Swelling beyond the length of the jewelry
Bullet Point Redness or discoloration (including red streaks from the tattoo)
Bullet Point Bleeding that restarts or continues after 24 hours
Bullet Point Swollen lymph nodes (especially near the piercing site)
Bullet Point Fever

Special Note Regarding Tongue Piercings: If you have any neck stiffness or difficult swallowing, seek medical attention immediately. These may be symptoms of a rare but potentially serious adverse reaction to your piercing and can result in serious damage if left untreated.

Cysts/Keloids/Scarring

Certain piercings (such as cartilage piercings) are prone to developing cysts, keloids or scarring. Cysts are fluid filled bumps that develop near the piercing and are very tender. Do not try to "pop" or drain a cyst. Regular sea salt soaks encourage cysts to drain naturally, and can be used to treat minor cysts. If a cyst occurs an saline soaking has no positive effect, contact your piercer for further guidance.