What happens if you get a tattoo with bad tattoo ink?

Answer 1

If it's left unattended, it could go deeper into your skin or spread wider. Worst case scenario: you get gangrene or leprosy and your skin starts to fall off.

More likely in the 21st century: It'll feel itchy and sore longer than it ought to and that's really irritating. It could cause some parts of the tattoo to not heal correctly, thus damaging the design.

To avoid this, follow your artist's after-care directions. They know what they're talking about.

Use pure, non-irritating soap and lotion. Clean twice a day--no exceptions!! Dry with paper towels--not terrycloth bath towels. They harbor a lot of bacteria even when they're fresh out of the drier. I know it's gross. That's life. Literally.

As always, if you suspect your tattoo has become infected, ASK YOUR ARTIST ABOUT IT.

Answer 2

If there's any redness or puffiness after the first two days, chances are you're infected.

Don't use any harsh alcohol-based cleansers on the tattoo, though, and don't seal it up with a petroleum-based anti-bacterial cream.

GO TO YOUR ARTIST and ask him or her if it is infected. They'll be able to tell you better than the internet monster can and they'll be able to tell you how to care for it if it is.

Answer 3

Tattoo infections can have several forms.

If the tattoo needle was not sterilized or new, it is possible to develop hepatitis C and hepatitis B, as well as staph infections and HIV. There may not be symptoms for these diseases.

Skin infections from tattoos can be more obvious. Swelling and redness, fever and warmth of the infected area, as well as puss and oozing are sure signs of an infection.

Allergic reactions to the tattoo ink is very common, especially in red pigment ink.

Answer 4

Most of the time, the only downside is a dull tattoo. However, if the artist is using a bad ink that does not take well to the skin it could cause scarring. I recommend avoiding eBay at all costs for ink. Check out doublehtattoo.com They only sell top of the line ink and any brand you choose will look great.