Tattoo Ink Allergies

Allergic reaction to Tattoo ink can develop at any time. It can happen:

  •   Immediately

  •   Weeks or years later

  •   Decades afterward

Some people develop an allergic reaction after having a medical treatment. 

Red is often the culprit, but any color can cause an allergic reaction. Allergies to red ink are often linked to the presence of certain compounds such as mercury sulfide, cadmium selenide, or other metal-based pigments. When this happens, you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:

  •   Redness and swelling

  •   Itch

  •   Small pimple-like bumps

  •   Raised, scaly patches

  •   Deep lumps

  •   Blisters

  •   Skin crusts or flakes off

  •   A watery fluid leaking from the area

If you suspect that you re having an allergic reaction, dermatologists recommend the following:

  • Serious reaction: Seek immediate medical care.
    Signs of a serious reaction: You see a reaction in your tattoo and have one or more of the following:
    Trouble breathing, a racing heart, tightness in your chest, dizziness or lightheadedness, a stomachache, intense swelling, serious pain, flushing, or hives.

  •   Mild or moderate reaction: Tell your tattoo artist about the reaction, and ask if there's anything you should do. If the reaction lasts longer than 1 or 2 weeks, see a board-certified dermatologist.

  • Signs of a mild or moderate reaction: You have a noticeable change within your inked skin, but you don't have any symptoms that affect another part of your body, such as trouble breathing or a stomachache

Treatment options

If your symptoms are mild, you may be able to use over-the-counter (OTC) medications to find relief.

OTC antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) may help reduce overall symptoms. Topical ointments, such as hydrocortisone or triamcinolone cream (Cinolar), may help soothe local inflammation and other irritation.

If OTC methods aren't working, your healthcare provider may be able to prescribe a stronger antihistamine or other medication to help ease your symptoms.

Here are some ingredients in tattoo ink that may cause allergic reactions:

  •   aluminum

  •   aminoazobenzene

  •   brazilwood

  •   cadmium sulfide

  •   carbon (also called "India ink")

  •   chromic oxide

  •   cobalt aluminate

  •   cobalt chloride

  •   ferric hydrate

  •   ferric oxide

  •   iron oxide

  •   lead chromate

  •   manganese

  •   mercury sulfide