Infection From Tattoos: Care Instructions | Kaiser Permanente

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Overview

An infected tattoo can be serious. The area around your tattoo may be painful, swollen, red, and hot. You may see red streaks or pus at the tattoo site. You may have a fever. Or you may have swollen or tender lymph nodes.

It's important to take good care of your infection at home so it doesn't get worse.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Or if your doctor prescribed an antibiotic ointment, apply it as directed.
• If your doctor told you how to care for your infected tattoo, follow your doctor's instructions. If you did not get instructions, follow this general advice:
  • Wash the tattoo with a mild soap and water 2 times a day. Don't use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, which can slow healing.
  • Gently pat the tattoo dry after you wash it.
  • You may cover the tattoo with a thin layer of an unscented, water-based cream or lotion and a nonstick bandage.
  • Replace the bandage as needed.
• Ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.

When should you call for help?

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You lose feeling in the area near the tattoo, or it feels numb or tingly.
• The skin near the tattoo turns pale or cool.
• The tattoo starts to bleed, and blood soaks through the bandage. Oozing small amounts of blood is normal.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• Your symptoms are getting worse.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter N944 in the search box to learn more about "Infection From Tattoos: Care Instructions".

Current as of: December 4, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review BoardAll Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Topic Contents

• Overview
• How can you care for yourself at home?
• When should you call for help?
• Where can you learn more?

Current as of: December 4, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review BoardAll Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

©2024-2025 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.

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