David Cowley

Tattoo Allergy

Although extremely rare, a tattoo allergy usually occurs because of the type of inks used.  Most allergy symptoms are the result of using red, green, blue and yellow colored inks.  In the past, many brands of tattoo ink used mercury in them but this practice has all but disappeared because of its harmful side effects.

If you have a tattoo allergy then you suffer from allergies Type 4 also called cell-mediated or delayed allergies.  When T-cells become activated and result in an inflammation of the effected area. It usually develops with repeated exposure to some substance in the environment.  All of a sudden you may develop a hypersensitivity to all of your jewelry.  Symptoms may include a rash, itching, swelling, blistering, and eczema.

Although extremely rare, a tattoo allergy usually occurs because of the type of inks used.  Most allergy symptoms are the result of using red, green, blue and yellow colored inks.  In the past, many brands of tattoo ink used mercury in them but this practice has all but disappeared because of its harmful side effects.

Today many of the inks used by tattoo artiest contain nickel, cadmium and chromine.  Many of the cheaper jewelry items contain nickel in them and if you have problems wearing jewelry then do not get a tattoo.  It is also important to note that symptoms may not show up immediately, but may take years to show up.

All allergies tend to get worst over time.  The more times you are exposed to the offending agent the worst your allergy symptoms become.  The first time you get a tattoo you may show only a slight redness or itching, which is usually attributed to the tattooing process itself instead of an allergic reaction.  After getting your second, third or forth tattoo, suddenly all of your tattoos develop rashes and blistering not just your newest work of art.  This is the reason why getting a skin patch test is not really conducive to detecting allergies before getting a tattoo.

Treatment

If you develop tattoo allergies soon after you get your inked masterpiece, you can often get relief with the liberal application of antibiotic ointment, hydrocortisone creams, anti-itch creams and cold compresses.  If the area does not clear up in a week or two you should visit a dermatologist who will likely prescribe some type of steroid to combat your tattoo allergies.

Nickel, cadmium and chromine from the inks used will be in your body for life.  If your allergy symptoms show up after several years of obtaining the inked work of art you should seriously consider having all of them removed.  Laser tattoo removal is the latest and perhaps the best method of removal.

Laser energy causes the tattoo pigment to fragment into smaller particles which can then be removed by the body's immune system.  Because black pigment absorbs all laser wavelengths, it's the easiest to remove.  Colors such as green, blue, red and yellow selectively absorb laser light and can only be treated by selected lasers based on the pigment color.

Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with treating the allergy symptoms such as Vitamin E, Aloe Vera, and Quercitin.

Vitamin E accelerates wound healing and aids in the functioning of the immune system.  Vitamin E can be taken internally or applied as a lotion to the affected areas of the skin.

Aloe Vera will help rejuvenate and tone skin all over. A naturally cooling gel, the Aloe Vera botanical ingredients work together to stimulate the blood circulation and naturally soften the skin.

Quercitin is a well-known flavonoid.  Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants and can reduce inflammation boost the immune system and strengthen blood vessels and improve circulation.  Quercitin is also known for its ability to block the release of histamines, thus reducing or preventing allergy symptoms.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.

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