Tattoo and Body Piercing Infections and Treatments

Tattoos and body piercings, by their very nature, are basically wounds. And like all wounds are open to infection. With more than 16% of the American population sporting some form of body art or piercing, it then behooves us to be fully aware of the dangers and treatment for our newly inflicted wounds, including what to look for in signs of an infected tattoo or piercing. It also goes without saying that because this is technically an invasive procedure, you should choose an above-board shop that operates according to the Department of Health codes in your area and practices sterile procedures from start to finish.

As always, if you are in doubt about what looks good and what doesn't concerning your tattoo, seek medical attention immediately. Still, there are some hard and fast rules that do apply when determining whether something has 'gone bad' with your tattoo or body piercing.

With reference to body jewelry, the area around the piercing will definitely show signs of redness for approximately a week to 10 days. Expect it to appear 'angry', although anything in the range of swelling or colored discharge should be considered suspect and treatment arranged at once. Genital piercings in particular are subject to increased risks of infection due to the nature of the area being pierced. Any indication, no matter how minor, that these piercings are not healing well, needs to be addressed with a medical professional as soon as possible.

Tattoos can be a bit more complex in determining whether an area is infected or not. Because there are in effect a myriad number of small wounds inflicted on the skin, the area will become somewhat swollen, a bit weepy, and possibly tender in the days following the treatment. You should be given instructions by the tattoo artist regarding how to care for your tattoo in the days following the application.

If the weeping begins to smell badly, or show signs of discoloration, or if a fever or body aches accompany this symptom, seek medical treatment immediately. Instances of infected tattoos have been reported where serious medical conditions have resulted, so infection needs to be taken quite seriously.

The final stage of your tattoo may include some shedding or flaking of the of skin. It is important not to pick at the area, and to keep it very clean. Moisturize the site and redress it after washing with a mild unscented non-bar soap as needed to keep the tattoo free from infection.

With proper care and maintenance, your body piercing and tattoos will continue to provide you with a lifetime of infection-free healthy enjoyment.
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Inflicting Ink is a Rhode Island Tattoo Studio that embodies quality, consistency and pride, and offers a sterile, safe, comfortable, artistic environment to its customers.  Nominated multiple times for the Best Tattoo Parlor in Rhode Island and Best Tattoo Artist in RI.

You may contact them for an appointment for a tattoo at (401) 683-5680 and of course walk-ins are always welcome.

For more information, please visit our home page at www.inflictinginktattoo.com.