How To Treat An Infected Tattoo

Antibiotic Creams

Antibiotic cream is used to treat or prevent bacterial infections, typically on the surface of the skin. Antibiotic creams can be purchased over-the-counter and used up to three times a day. Most tattoo artists do not recommend using petroleum-based antibiotic cream during normal healing as is it may alter the final look of the tattoo, but it is better to err on the side of caution when dealing with an infected tattoo. Cream antibiotics are thinner and easier to spread, making them useful for larger tattoo infections and infections that are oozing. Dry, crustier infected tattoos would benefit from the thickness of an oil-based antibiotic ointment.

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Antihistamine Medication

Sometimes infected tattoos are caused by an allergic reaction to the ink used. Red ink is notorious for being an allergen when it comes to tattoos. Sometimes an allergic reaction can occur even if the allergen is not ink; the irritation of the skin itself during the tattooing process could be enough. Antihistamine medication helps block allergen receptors in the body to stop allergic reactions. This can include the swelling, pain, itching, and any flaking caused by the infection after a reaction. If the infection is notthe result of an allergy, antihistamines can still be useful in treating infection symptoms that mimic allergic reactions. Over-the-counter antihistamines are the easiest to purchase. Checking the targeted symptoms and side effects will make sure the best medication is chosen.

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