Are tattoos actually safe? Professional tattoo artist reveals how to prepare for a tattoo, minimise the risk and heal

Tattooing can be a slow process, and rushing can lead to mistakes. By following some guidelines, you can minimise risks and ensure a safe experience.

Tattoos can be a fun and special way to celebrate individuality and commemorate the moments and people that are most special to you. However, there are a few other things to consider before getting one. It goes without saying that you have to make sure your tattoo artist uses clean needles and safe practices, but beyond the potential for infection, there's a lot you should be aware of.

Let your tattoo heal naturally to prevent infection or scarring. (Instagram/ thedmtuniverse)

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Pallavi, tattoo artist at Devil'z Tattooz, said, “Pre-tattoo care, arguably the most neglected step in the tattoo process, is actually the most important thing you can do for yourself as a client to ensure a smooth tattoo process.”

What should you know before getting a tattoo?

⦿ Start moisturising the area of your body you want to be tattooed a week prior

⦿ Stay hydrated for healthy skin texture

⦿ Do not wax or epilate the area to be tattooed within four days of the appointment.

⦿ Protect your skin from potential sunburns before the appointment

⦿ Do not consume alcohol or any other substances 24 hours prior

⦿ Eat well before the appointment

Post-tattoo care

Pallavi added, “In post-care, exercise and sports are prohibited for 10 days. Swimming, beaches, bathtubs, and jacuzzis are to be avoided for three weeks. Keep your tattoo moisturised and follow the artist's aftercare instructions.”

Are tattoos safe?

Tattoos can be safe when done properly and with proper aftercare. However, there are some potential risks and considerations to be aware of. According to Pallavi, tattoos are safe subject to the hygiene standards of the studio you visit. She suggested researching well before you choose your artist and being mindful of these:

⦿ If there is any compromise being made in hygiene that would automatically make the process unsafe

⦿ Some colour pigments contain allergens, and any client should be mindful of them before getting a colour tattoo

⦿ Clients with pre-existing health complications must always consult with a doctor before getting a tattoo

Which tattoos hurt the most?

The level of pain experienced during a tattoo session can vary greatly from person to person. When asked which tattoos or placements hurt the most and which ones hurt lesser, Pallavi said, “Fingers, palms, feet, torso, knee ditch, elbow ditch, spine, and lower back tattoos tend to be the most painful experiences. If we talk about the placements that hurt less, the forearms and biceps are the easiest to sit for.”

How can you avoid the fading of tattoos?

Pallavi said, “We need to first understand what fading of tattoos means. Because of our biology, tattoo pigments get broken down over time as our immune system tries to disintegrate and digest them. This is why, eventually, over many years, tattoos lose saturation and sharpness. We are incapable of changing this and cannot avoid it. It is a natural process.”

She added that other key factors are sun damage, improper care, placements, and sizing. “Once the tattoo has healed, applying sunscreen regularly can protect it from turning green prematurely. And getting small, fine tattoos near joints and skin folds should be avoided at all costs,” Pallavi said.

What tattoos are popular right now?

She said that the youth is leaning towards more delicate, vintage-appearing tattoos with a faded look, usually fine-lined. Pallavi added, “Cyber sigils are also a very popular motif currently. The current trend is to get tattoos for one’s own satisfaction rather than for show. But since tattoos are very subjective, what is in is not the correct bar to measure them by because trends will always change and alternate but tattoos are permanent. A tattoo design should always resonate with the person getting it rather than depending on trends.”

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.