I have a rash near the site of my new tattoo?

Question

Do you think its cause from the ink? Its like 2 inches away from the tattoo and only on one side... wtf it going on?

Its about 2 inches away from the tattoo, its not itchy but its really red with little white dots, wtf? do you think im allergic to the ink?

Answer 1

It could be that you are reacting to an after care product - if you are using A & D a lot of people are allergic to the lanolin in it.

It could be that you have a staph infection. It is not uncommon to see it "away" from the tattoo. Have it checked.

Edit notes to the information below: It is NOT common to see an allergic reaction right after the tattoo has been done unless there is already a tattoo with that color. Almost all allergic reactions to tattoo ink do not occur until at least six months or longer after the tattoo was done which is why spot testing is of little value.

Answer 2

In most cases, the rash (which looks like small pimples) is caused by over moisturizing the area. Chances are, you're applying some sort of ointment or lotion to the tattoo. All that moisture needs a way to escape and can do so in the form of pimples... A rash can also be caused by something as simple as clogged pores or sometimes, ingrown hairs. Once the tattoo has finished scabbing or peeling, you can apply rubbing alcohol to the rash to help dry it out. Don't try to pop the pimples... this can cause scarring and may lighten the tattoo in that area.

It is possible that you're allergic to the ointment or lotion that you're applying. You can try switching brands... but make sure you consult your artist about the condition of your tattoo before changing anything in your aftercare procedure. They should be able to help you find an alternate way of caring for the problem.

If you're having an allergic reaction to the ink, the spot with the 'offending' ink will raise up, itch and have an extremely hard time healing. At times it may 'weep' and look a bit lumpy. Allergic reactions typically occur just after the tattoo is finished, and noticed as the tattoo tries to heal. Sometimes an allergic reaction can occur years after the tattoo has been done and healed- but that's pretty rare from what I've seen. The most common allergy-causing color is known to be red (a.k.a. Red Reaction), but it is possible for a person to be allergic to any color. If you're known to have severe allergies, ask your artist about doing a spot test.