Tattoo allergy
In some people, an allergic reaction to tattoo ink can occur. This means the immune system reacts excessively to a pigment or another component of the ink. As a result, the tattooed skin may become inflamed.
Allergic reactions can develop in both decorative tattoos and permanent make up.
What does an allergic reaction look like?
Symptoms usually remain limited to one specific color within the tattoo. Although any color can cause a reaction, red tattoo pigments are most commonly involved, occurring in red, brown, pink or purple tattoo inks. In permanent make up, skin colored and brown pigments are often used, and these can also trigger allergic responses.
On average, allergic reactions to red ink develop about 1 year after the tattoo was placed. However, they can appear within a few weeks, or even as late as 10 to 15 years after tattooing.
The most common presentation is a flat, itchy swelling within the red part of the tattoo. Sometimes the area may also feel painful or sensitive. In some cases, there is swelling without any symptoms at all. Less commonly, the skin may become thickened and rough, or small wounds and crusts may develop. In rare cases, blistering or open sores can occur.
What is the cause of the allergy?
The exact cause of allergic reactions to tattoo ink is not yet fully understood. In the case of red ink, it is thought that certain azo pigments may break down over time into smaller substances within the skin. This breakdown may possibly be influenced by factors such as sunlight. These smaller byproducts may then trigger an immune reaction. For this reason, laser treatments, which also use light energy, can in some cases provoke or worsen an allergic reaction.
Because every immune system is different, it is currently not possible to predict who will develop an allergic reaction or when this might happen.
Other allergies
It is important to understand that allergic reactions are not always caused by the tattoo pigment itself. In some cases, the immune response may be triggered by other substances present in the ink formulation, such as additives, stabilizers, or preservatives. These components can occasionally provoke a temporary allergic reaction in the treated area.
In addition, allergic reactions may be related to materials used during the tattoo procedure. For example, individuals with latex sensitivity can react to latex gloves worn by the tattoo artist.
Allergic reactions can also develop in response to tattoo aftercare products. These reactions typically present with redness, scaling, itching, or irritation of the surrounding skin. Potential triggers include fragrances, preservatives, and wool alcohols, among other commonly used cosmetic ingredients.
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