Symtoms

Complaints after getting a tattoo

After getting a tattoo, various complaints may occur. The skin is temporarily damaged and needs time to heal. Some reactions are part of the normal healing process, while others may indicate a complication. Below you can read more about the most common tattoo-related complaints: pain, itching, and swelling.

Pain in a tattoo

Mild pain after getting a tattoo is normal and comparable to a superficial abrasion. This pain usually decreases within a few days.

If the pain becomes more severe or is accompanied by symptoms such as pus, open wounds, or fever, this may indicate an infection (most commonly bacterial). This often occurs within the first few days after tattooing. In such cases, it is important to consult a general practitioner or dermatologist immediately. An untreated infection can spread and lead to serious consequences. In some cases, hospitalization may be required.

With permanent make-up, especially on the lips, reactivation of the herpes simplex virus may occur. This presents as painful blisters, often in people who have previously had cold sores.

Other possible causes of pain in a tattoo include:

● An overworked or excessively traumatized tattoo
● Scar formation or hypertrophic scar tissue
● Allergic reactions to tattoo pigments
● Chronic (granulomatous) inflammatory reactions in tattoos, such as sarcoidosis or foreign-body reactions
● Rare: neurosensory tattoo reactions, with neurogenic pain, burning sensations, or itching without visible skin abnormalities

Itching in a tattoo

Itching is a common complaint during the healing process and is usually harmless. The skin is repairing itself, and scab formation may cause a tight or itchy sensation.

A common complaint is itching in a tattoo after sun exposure. This is known as a photosensitive reaction. It is a harmless skin reaction that is usually short-lived and resolves on its own.

If itching persists, it may be caused by:

● An allergic reaction to pigments in tattoo ink (especially red), often combined with swelling limited to one color of the tattoo
● An allergic reaction to ingredients in aftercare products (such as fragrances or preservatives)
● Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or lichen planus

Avoid scratching the tattoo, as this may lead to scarring or damage to the pigment.

Swelling in a tattoo

Some redness and mild swelling during the first few days after getting a tattoo is normal and part of the wound-healing process.

If swelling persists, increases, or is accompanied by pain and pus, this may indicate an infection. This usually occurs shortly after tattooing and requires medical treatment.

If swelling develops at a later stage, other causes may be involved, such as:

● An allergic reaction to pigments in tattoo ink
● A foreign-body reaction to ink particles
● Other granulomatous inflammatory diseases, including sarcoidosis

In cases of persistent swelling, lumps, or nodules in a black tattoo, it is important to rule out sarcoidosis through additional diagnostic testing.

Important to know

Many other skin conditions may develop in or around a tattoo. The examples above are therefore not exhaustive. This text is intended as general information and does not replace medical advice.

If you experience persistent or worsening tattoo-related complaints such as pain, itching, swelling, or other skin abnormalities, always consult a physician or a specialized dermatologist.