A tattoo places pigment into the skin with needles. Breaking the skin barrier creates risks of infection, allergic reaction and scarring. Careful hygiene and aftercare reduce risk but cannot make tattooing completely risk-free.
Choose a responsible studio
- Check local licensing or inspection requirements.
- Confirm that single-use needles are opened in front of you.
- Ensure gloves are changed and reusable equipment is sterilised.
- Ink should be poured into new disposable containers and never returned.
- Avoid tattooing over infected, inflamed or damaged skin.
Infection
Infection may result from unsterile equipment, poor aftercare or contaminated ink; even sealed ink has sometimes contained microorganisms. Increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pain, pus, fever or red streaks require prompt medical advice. Rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, confusion or feeling very unwell needs urgent care.
Allergy and other skin reactions
Pigments can cause an itchy rash, swelling or nodules soon after tattooing or years later. Granulomas and raised scars can occur. Seek assessment rather than repeatedly applying unprescribed creams.
Aftercare
Follow written instructions from a reputable professional. Wash hands before touching the area, keep it clean, avoid picking, and do not swim or soak it during early healing. Protect healed tattoos from excessive sunlight. Advice differs with dressing type, so use the instructions supplied.
MRI and medical care
Rarely, a tattoo may swell or burn during MRI. Tell radiology staff about tattoos and permanent makeup; do not avoid a medically necessary scan without professional advice.
Removal
Removal commonly requires several laser sessions and may leave colour changes or scars. Do-it-yourself acids and unregulated creams can burn the skin. Discuss options with a qualified medical professional.
Before proceeding
Ask for individual advice if you have a condition or medicine that affects immunity, bleeding or wound healing, or a tendency to keloid scars. Do not tattoo when intoxicated or unable to give informed consent.
This article provides general educational information and does not replace medical assessment.
Sources
- US FDA: Think Before You Ink—Tattoo Safety
- US FDA: Tattoos and Permanent Makeup Fact Sheet
- US FDA: Tattoo Health Risks
Last reviewed: 28 August 2026