Tattooing is on its way to become a popular form of body art. Earlier accepted among a fraction of people in society, tattoos are now beautifying people from all sections. These tattoos which appear enticing on the body can also lead to health problems. Allergies are most common side effects of tattoos. Many people fall prey to allergic problems even after getting their tattoos from finest tattoo parlors where sanitation or sterilization approach was not an issue. Most of the allergies occur due to unsuitable pigments in the ink. Red or green ink has been known to be culprit in most number of cases. Reason for these pathetic results is lack of regulation for these two inks.
Metallic pigments such as cadmium and cobalt are also added to the tattoo inks in addition to other things. These pigments are mostly responsible for allergic reactions. If you have got a new tattoo and feel itching sensations, it might be a symptom of allergy. Major symptoms of allergy from tattoo are redness of skin area in and around tattoo area, swelling and irritation. In worst cases, oozing can also happen because of tattoo allergy. All these symptoms arise because of inflammation of the tattoo area.
If you had a history of allergy, you should carefully analyze whether or not you should get a tattoo. It will be great if you go for a small test. Get a small mark of tattoo ink behind your ears. This way you will know if there are any threats of allergic reactions. Allergies caused by tattoos are known as Type – 4 allergies. They are also known as ‘Delayed Allergies’. Allergic reaction can take weeks to surface. In many cases, allergies begin after a long period of one or two years. It is practically impossible to test yourself for allergic reactions in such cases. However, you should make sure that tattoo artist is following universal precautions and using non-latex gloves.
Follow this link: Tattoos and Allergies
Duke Cornea
