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By Amanda Genge, HealthAtoZ Writer
Thinking about getting a tattoo or have a teenager who's bugging you about it? People from all walks of life are adorning their bodies with ink these days. Just because tattoos are popular, though, doesn't mean that getting one is safe. It's important to learn the facts if you're considering getting inked.
What exactly is a tattoo?
Tattoos are permanent designs made by injecting colored ink below the surface of the skin. A tattoo is a collection of tiny puncture wounds filled with ink. The designs range from simple to stunning. Most tattoo artists use an electric instrument that forces a needle in and out of the skin, leaving ink about 1/8 inch below the surface. Permanent makeup is also considered tattooing.
What are the risks?
The most common risk with tattooing is infection. Dirty needles can spread diseases like hepatitis and HIV. Also, a fresh tattoo is basically an open wound. It can get infected if you don't take care of it. Some people may also be allergic to the pigments in tattoo ink. These pigments are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In fact, some pigments used in tattooing are meant for industrial uses like painting cars or printing.
Not all tattoo reactions happen right away. Itching, burning or scarring can occur months or even years later. Tattoos may even cause allergic reactions in some people. Unsightly scars may form at the site of a tattoo in others.
Tattoos with tiny metal pieces in the ink may swell or burn when a person has magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) done. Also, exposure to sunlight may cause tattoos to become itchy and irritated. You can help prevent this by covering your tattoo with SPF 30 sunscreen.
People who have a hard time fighting infection should not get tattoos. That includes people with HIV/AIDS, those with diabetes and people who have had organ transplants.
What safety features should I look for in a tattoo parlor?
- A licensed studio. Many states require that studios be licensed and meet certain health and safety standards.
- Disposable needles, ink cups, gloves, towels and masks. These should be single-use only and thrown away after every client. Make sure safe practices are followed in regard to body fluids that can transmit infection. Check with your local health department if you are unsure.
- An easy-to-reach sink. The artist should wash his or her hands before putting on a new pair of gloves and starting the tattoo.
- Sterilized equipment. All tools should be sterilized in an autoclave, which uses heat, pressure and steam to disinfect.
- Privacy for clients. You should feel comfortable while you're being tattooed. Separate rooms or partitions can help put you at ease.
- References. You'll need them for both the studio itself and the artist who will be doing the tattoo.
How should I take care of a new tattoo?
After finishing the tattoo, the artist will cover the design with antibiotic ointment and cover it with a gauze bandage. After 12 to 24 hours, you can remove the bandage (always wash your hands before you touch a fresh tattoo). Then wash the tattoo with mild soap and gently pat it dry. Cover it with more ointment to prevent irritation. Don't pick at any scabs that form, and try to keep the area dry until it's fully healed. Call your doctor right away if you notice signs of infection like fever, redness, pain, swelling or pus.
Are temporary tattoos a safer option?
Rub-on decal tattoos are generally safe to use. People with sensitive skin may still develop a reaction, though. Foreign-made decals may contain colors that aren't FDA-approved, so check labels carefully.
Henna tattoos contain dyes that are not approved by the FDA for use on the skin. Henna and some of the chemicals that are added to it to make it look darker blue or black are approved only for use as hair dye. These substances can cause serious skin reactions.
No tattoo - temporary or permanent - is completely safe. Knowing what to look for and what to ask before you get inked is the best way to protect your health and also the quality of the body art you get.
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