What Bumps on Your Tattoo Can Mean
Tattoo complications can happen to the best of us. While you do play a big part in keeping your tattoo clean with proper aftercare, some factors are out of your control. Bumps can signal one of many complications, so it’s important to closely monitor your tattoo in the beginning. Even years after your tattoo has healed, it’s vital to keep up with your tattoo aftercare with products like our tattoo lotion. We use natural, soothing ingredients that seep quickly into your skin, giving your tattoo the moisture it needs to look its best every day.
Unfortunately, aftercare products can’t fix everything. Here’s a quick breakdown of a few common complications signified by bumps:
Tattoo Complications from Bad Ink or Sensitivities
It’s easy to jump to conclusions about ink quality if you start developing bumps and a rash. While uncommon, recalls on contaminated products have happened. The FDA cautions consumers about inks that:
- Can be bought online
- Aren’t sold in bundles
- Don’t have much information on the label
Keeping those red flags in mind, less insidious ingredients—like diluents—can still cause
reactions in some people. According to the FDA, it’s best to report persistent bumps and rashes on or near your tattoos to your doctor as soon as possible.
Tattoo Color Allergies Can Happen to Anyone
Just like with dyes found in food products, your skin may be sensitive to certain ink colors. Even black tattoo ink can cause reactions, although reds tend to cause more issues. Aad.org states that, even if you don’t have a reaction right away, you can still develop an allergy later on.
Watch out for bumps that look like pimples. Typically, you’ll also notice blisters, patches of scaley skin, or swelling. However, reactions can turn severe and may require a trip to the hospital.
Tattoo Keloids and How You Can Prevent Them
Unlike the previous two complications, keloids—a large bump caused by healing skin—can be potentially avoided. If you know you’re susceptible to keloids from previous tattooing experiences, you can request your tattoo artist to test a small area of your skin beforehand.
Keloids also tend to form on the upper chest, neck, shoulders, and head. Getting arm or leg tattoos poses a lower risk.
You can reduce your risk of keloids by being extra careful with your tattoo aftercare. Aad.org cites that protecting your skin from UV exposure is one on the most important steps. Make sure to use moisturizers and ointments that contain protective ingredients. Our tattoo ointment is made with tocopherol, so it heals your skin and gives it an extra layer of protection against the sun.
Final Thoughts
Whether your tattoo is new, or you’ve had it for years, keeping a close eye on it is essential. Tattoo aftercare can help you prevent some complications. However, with allergens and low-quality ink, you may not know there’s a problem until you start seeing bumps or discoloration on your tattoo. Taking immediate action gives you your best chance at avoiding severe complications.
