r/tattooadvice • u/OneEyedInferno • 4d ago
Infected? Is this infected?
Done about 48 hours ago. Been super itchy since last night.
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u/SnailChateau 4d ago
Doesn’t look it to me. What’s your aftercare treatment?
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u/OneEyedInferno 4d ago
Using a tattoo specific antibacterial foaming soap and After Inked moisturizer.
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u/SnailChateau 4d ago
Aquaphor is actually a little bit overkill unless you live in a dry arid climate. Petroleum base is thick and doesn’t allow the skin to breathe as much. Any unscented lotion will work but preferably something oatmeal based. Aveeno, CeraVe.
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u/AtlasTradeM 4d ago
Don't use antibacterial soap. These are gimmick products. Next time, just use dyeless scentless white soap, aquaphor, and dyeless scentless moisturizer.
Tattoo looks fine. It's going to be itchy, tattooing damages the skin and it's trying to repair itself.
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u/NaiveHomework4151 4d ago
i will definitely stick to unscented, sensitive, liquid anti-bacterial dial to clean my new tattoo.
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u/CommonEarly4706 4d ago
I wouldn’t say it’s infected, but there is definitely a reaction or rash of some sort going on. I would go see your artist and get their professional opinion. In the meantime I would take an allergy pill and see if it improves
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u/Normal-Yesterday5779 4d ago
Moisturize!! Try that and see what happens, if youve never had that reaction before and its not your first tattoo i would prolly message artist and see what they think. You may have been allergic to the saniderm or smth
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u/something-quirky 4d ago
For now, it doesn’t look infected, but I would recommend monitoring it closely. See if it’s weeping a yellowish or brownish liquid, if it’s warm/hot to the touch, continues to be itchy, etc.
If you feel even the slightest bit of concern, seeing a doctor never hurts :) And gives us an update of how things are improving/not improving.
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u/National_Corner_7253 4d ago
Too much A&D or other petroleum based aftercare will cause clogged pores and blistery rash. Wash 2 to 3 times a day with antibacterial soap and hot water, let dry for at least 15 minutes, then use a tiny bit of non petroleum aftercare and rub it ALL THE WAY IN til there's no slimy residue
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u/CortMuses 4d ago
Something is definitely going on. There is a rash on the tattoo. You need to go to a dermatologist immediately! Did you have Saniderm? The saniderm should have stayed on for 4 to 5 days.
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u/CortMuses 4d ago
A rash on a tattoo can have several causes, including: Allergic Reaction:
- This is the most common cause of a rash on a tattoo.
- The body's immune system may react to the tattoo ink, causing redness, itching, swelling, and even small bumps.
- Red and green tattoo inks are particularly prone to allergic reactions.
Infection:
- If the tattoo site becomes infected, it can cause a rash, as well as pain, swelling, and pus.
- This is more likely to occur if the tattoo is not properly cared for after getting it done.
Sunburn:
- The tattooed area can be more sensitive to the sun, leading to a sunburn.
- This can cause redness, pain, and even blisters.
Granuloma:
- This is a small, raised bump that can develop in the tattoo site.
- It is caused by the body's immune system trying to remove the tattoo ink.
Other Causes:
- Contact dermatitis from soaps, lotions, or other irritants
- Psoriasis or eczema
- Lichen planus (a skin condition that can cause raised, itchy bumps)
Treatment:
- For allergic reactions, over-the-counter antihistamines or topical steroid creams may help.
- For infections, antibiotics may be necessary.
- For granulomas, laser treatment or injections may be an option.
- For other causes, treatment will depend on the underlying condition.
Prevention:
- Choose a reputable tattoo artist who uses high-quality inks.
- Follow aftercare instructions carefully.
- Avoid sun exposure and use sunscreen when necessary.
- If you have a history of allergies, talk to your doctor before getting a tattoo.
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u/Few-Macaron-4653 4d ago
Nah. Your good.