Tattoo allergy: all symptoms and causes

A tattoo allergy can destroy the dream of a beautiful tattoo. How to recognize the allergy and what helps against it, we tell you here.

What is a tattoo allergy?

A tattoo allergy is a contact allergy. New tattoos almost always cause slight swelling or skin inflammation, therefore it is often not so easy to determine whether there is actually a tattoo allergy. Allergy symptoms such as wheals or eczema are striking. The allergy is usually triggered by various substances in the ink used. A tattoo allergy cannot be cured, only the symptoms can be alleviated. If symptoms persist, doctors usually advise to remove the tattoo.

Causes: How does an allergy to tattoos come about?

As I said, the most common cause of allergic reactions is substances in the ink. It is also believed that the allergy risk is increased by using colors with metal compounds for a tattoo. The following substances, which are often contained in a tattoo for color pigments, are considered to be risky:

  • Red: manganese, mercury, cadmium
  • Blue: cobalt compounds
  • Green: chrome
  • Brown: cadmium, iron oxide
  • Yellow: Cadmium can increase sensitivity to light

Dangerous tattoo: further triggers of an allergy

In addition, other substances such as Preservatives used or a contaminated needle cause allergy reactions. If there is a latex allergy to the tattooist's gloves, this can also be a trigger for complaints.

What are the symptoms of a tattoo allergy?

In order to differentiate typical consequences of a tattoo from an allergy, one should pay particular attention to skin-related reactions. The following complaints occur frequently with an allergy to tattoos:

  • Wheals and eczema (particularly noticeable if they are only on skin areas with the same color used): The rash may be limited to the tattoo itself, but may also go beyond it.
  • Swelling
  • fever
  • Shortness of breath (in severe cases)

These symptoms will not always appear immediately after tattooing – sometimes they show up months or even years after the tattoo is stung, because the immune system only gradually develops antibodies against the allergen.

How does the doctor diagnose a tattoo allergy?

If there is a suspicion of an allergy to the new tattoo, those affected should ask the tattooist for a list of all substances used. Through an allergy test (patch test), in which the various substances are applied to the back with a plaster, it can be determined whether the body reacts to one of them.

Treatment: what helps against allergic reactions?

So far, it has not been possible to completely cure a tattoo allergy. The symptoms are primarily treated, for example, by cooling or, in more severe cases, by ointments containing cortisone. If the symptoms don't go away or keep coming back, the doctor can advise you to have the tattoo removed.

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