Tattoo Pimples – How to Avoid and Treat in Bangkok

The best way to avoid any pimples appearing on your newly inked tattoo is to keep your new tattoo scrupulously clean, and always diligently follow the aftercare instructions that are given to you by your tattooist.

It goes without saying that you should also ensure that your tattoo studio uses the latest hygienic practices, such as we have at ALL DAY Tattoo in Bangkok. In particular, check that:

• The studio is looks and smells spotless and is thoroughly cleaned after each tattoo session.
• The tattoo equipment is sterilized in an autoclave unit before each session.
• The ink, needles and other disposable items are in sterile packages and are only used, one time, for your tattoo.
• The work surfaces at the Tattoo station are covered with disposable film/barriers and are disinfected thoroughly before and after use.
• The artist wears disposable gloves and only uses top quality imported needles and inks.

What are the main causes of Pimples?

The most common reason why pimples appear on newly inked tattoos is due to the over-use of healing ointments. Too much ointment means you are effectively smothering the wound, which encourages a buildup of bacteria in the top layers of the epidermis.

Another common cause of pimples is when bacteria gets into the tattoo because you left the tattoo wrap on too long or you got dirt into it. Leaving the wrap on too long will mean your wound will get hot, creating a breeding ground for bacteria.

If you have had eczema, acnes, psoriasis, or your skin is very sensitive and you sometimes experience skin inflammation, then you are probably more susceptible to getting pimples on your tattoo.

It is important to understand that even if you have diligently followed all of the above guidelines, and even if you have not previously had any skin problems, it is still possible for you to get pimples on your new tattoo.

What exactly are Tattoo Pimples?

Pimples are small cysts that form on the surface of your skin over your tattoo. They are exactly the same as any other pimple on your body, except that they may appear in places that you have never previously had pimples.

At what point do pimples start to appear?

Generally speaking, they will start to form several days after you have had your tattoo – often at a time when you think you are over the worst and the tattoo is healing nicely. One pimple will appear at first, but within a few hours you will probably have a cluster on your tattoo that looks for all the world like teenage acne.

Will these pimples and other skin spots harm my new Tattoo?

If you are unlucky enough to have an outbreak of pimples, it is most unlikely that they will cause any damage to your tattoo, as the pimples form in the outer layer of skin – on top of the area where the ink is located.

However, this is only true if you follow the following advice and avoid ‘popping the spots’.

What should I do if I have an outbreak of pimples?

Don’t worry!

Leave them alone!

NEVER touch, pick, or squeeze.

Don’t try to treat them with any kind of non-tattoo formulated skin cream or acne ointments.

First and foremost, your pimples need to be kept dry and allowed to heal naturally.

Have quick, frequent showers and keep the soaping to a minimum. No scrubbing and don’t use abrasive cloths or a scrub brush.

Avoid any bumping and the use of harsh chemical products such as strong acne lotions.

Talk to your artist and he may recommend a mild, skin-sensitive tattoo lotion that is specially formulated to soothe your new tattoo and hydrate the skin.

How long will the pimples take to heal and go away?

If you follow the above advice, your pimples should heal between one and two weeks.

Learn from your personal experiences and maybe next time don’t keep your tattoo wrapped up for quite so long, and be even more thorough with cleanliness and hygiene.

What about pimples on an older tattoo?

Follow the same procedures set out above and refrain from using regular acnes remedies, as your skin in these areas will still be sensitive.

When should I start to worry?

If you have foolishly picked at your pimples, or they haven’t started to clear up within a week or so, then talk to you artist in the first instance, and if the outbreak is getting worse, then see your doctor or a dermatologist.

If you have pimple outbreaks on older tattoos, or even on tattoos that have been on your body for many years, then you should see your doctor or dermatologist.

But these situations are extremely rare, and for most of you, if you follow our advice about getting your tattoo done in a good hygienic studio such as ALL DAY Tattoo, and you follow the simple guidelines above, as well as your artist’s aftercare instructions, then worst that may happen is a few pimples for a week or so.

If you are worried about tattoo pimples or have any other concerns about your planned tattoo, why not click the button below and arrange your free, no-obligation consultation at ALL DAY Tattoo.

We will be only too happy to go through every aspect of the tattoo process. We will answer all your questions and hopefully reassure you on any concerns you may have. We look forward to seeing you soon.