When you receive a tattoo, your tattoo artist uses a handheld machine with a single-use needle to puncture the skin.

 

Every time this device makes a hole, it injects ink into the dermis.

 

Although we do our very best to ensure that we maintain a clean workspace and aseptic technique, the process may damage the skin and cause complications such as:

 

• Allergic reaction to tattoo dyes, which may develop years later; signs of an allergic reaction include a rash at the tattoo site
   

• Skin infection, such as a staph infection or tuberculosis
   

• Development of nodules of inflamed tissue called granulomas around the tattoo site
   

• Formation of keloids, which are overgrowths of scar tissue
   

• Blood-borne diseases, such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV, and tetanus; these can be contracted by using contaminated tattoo needles that haven’t been sanitized
   

• Interference with future magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tests
   

• Burning or swelling at the tattoo site

 

 

Your risk of complications is higher if you have other medical conditions like:
 

• Diabetes
   

• Allergies, especially if you've ever had a reaction that caused breaking out in red bumps, swelling of the throat, or difficulty breathing
   

• Skin disorders, such as eczema or psoriasis
   

• Immune Disorders or a weak immune system

 

 

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to double check with your primary physician before getting a tattoo.