What Causes a Tattoo Rash and How Is It Treated?

A new tattoo often causes irritation, but this should go away quickly. Signs of more serious allergy include Ink Fanatic Tattoo Studio a rash that looks like bumps that itch. It may resemble acne with pimples that leak when touched.

A tattoo rash can appear at any time, not just after getting new ink.

If you aren’t experiencing any other unusual symptoms, your rash probably isn’t a sign of anything serious. Allergic reaction, infection, and other underlying conditions are usually accompanied by other easily identifiable symptoms.

Here’s what to watch for, how to treat your symptoms, when to see a doctor, and more.

What’s the difference between redness and a rash?

New tattoos always cause some irritation. Injecting ink-covered needles into your skin spurs your immune system into action, resulting in redness, swelling, and warmth. These symptoms should fade once your skin cells adjust to ink.

A rash, on the other hand, can develop at any time. They’re usually characterized by itchy bumps, redness, and swelling. A rash may sometimes resemble acne, with pus-filled pimples that can leak when you poke or scratch them.

Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is another possible complication from getting a tattoo. This is a type of eczema that occurs when an irritant comes into contact with your skin, causing it to itch.

Itchy skin from contact dermatitis may then result in a red rash. In severe cases, you skin may blister.

Irritation can cause a rash to form around your tattoo, especially if you scratch it or don’t properly take care of the tattoo. Contact dermatitis from tattooing may also occur from irritants your skin touches after getting new ink.

For example, skin tends to get irritated when clothing, bandages, or other objects rub against it. It’s also possible to develop contact dermatitis on top of a healed tattoo if your skin touches irritants.

Treatment options
The best way to treat contact dermatitis around your tattoos is to avoid substances that you may be sensitive or allergic to. A dermatologist can help you identify the specific causes of this type of eczema, especially if you’re experiencing recurring rashes.

Use a cool compress. This can help alleviate itchiness from your rash. Take a clean towel and run it under cool water. Press it against your skin for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, up to three times a day, to relieve discomfort.
Use anti-itch topicals. Options include hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion.
Moisturize your skin after bathing. Use a gentle, unscented lotion, cream, or other moisturizer to prevent further irritation.

Soothe blisters and severe rash with colloidal oatmeal. This can also help with itchiness. You can find colloidal oatmeal in lotion form as well as in packets to use in a warm bath.