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Allergic Reactions To Tattoo Ink

By Mike Wamoult
Jun 6, 2008
Allergic reactions to tattoo inks are very uncommon but usually an allergic reaction would show up with a shade of red ink. Red ink is the only color that no current tattoo ink manufacturer has developed to be hypo-allergenic. Ink makers have the either most of or the rest of their colors hypo-allergenic, so you only need to worry about red if you have allergies to certain pigments.

Those who tend to be allergic to particular metals usually react to the ink which is present in the skin and their skin reacts by becoming swollen or itchy. Oozing of clear sebum is also possible as well. People who have allergies should think before they get tattoos because they stand the risk of suffering from anaphylactic shock and this sort of shock can be a life threatening issue.

Unfortunately when a person gets a tattoo there is always the potential to develop an allergic reaction to the tattoo ink. While allergic reactions are rare, they do happen. This is a result of the different types of materials that make up the composition of the tattoo ink.

The usual signs of an allergic reaction can range from localized redness to a generalized eczema-like rash. Steroids are usually used for treatment but keep in mind that just because a tattoo is red and irritated it does not mean that you are having an allergic reaction to the tattoo ink.

Tattoo allergies can also cause the formation of hives, which can usually be treated with medication at home. Very rarely tattoo ink allergies can develop complications that are more serious. When this happens it is possible to experience difficulty breathing, wheezing, and swelling in the throat area and more.

It is always a good idea to keep an eye out for any signs of an allergic reaction to the tattoo ink anytime that you get a tattoo. Basically always follow the overall directions too about keeping your tattoo clean and keeping it away from exposure to sunlight and moisturize the area at least once a day.

There are many metals that are put into tattoo inks, including nickel, which is said to be the most common metal allergy. Most normal earrings are made from nickel, so if you can wear those, some tattoo inks may not be able to be used. If you have allergies to metals then speak to your tattoo artist prior to actually getting the tattoo so you can discuss options.

Tattoo ink is usually a composite of pigments and carriers. Pigments are anything which can be ground in order to provide the necessary color. Minerals, vegetable dyes, plastics, and metallic salts have all been used to create tattoo inks.

People who make tattoo ink are not usually bound by law to declare what is in this tattoo ink so it is really possible not to know what precise chemical compounds have been used in making such inks. You should be very cautious when getting a tattoo in order to make sure that you are not allergic to the tattoo ink.
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