It's funny when the tattoo will itch intensely and sometimes it's hard to avoid this. After 2 or 3 days, the tattooed area starts to peel and remove the first layer of the skin. Don't be panic - that's normal and it means that tattoo is healing. Itching could be dangerous and it could cause loosing the tattoo color. There are many ways to help stop the itching of a tattoo that is healing that doesn't involve actually scratching it. Sufferers of this condition usually describe it as being occasional rather than consistent, although it can be either. Pinpointing the reason for this discomfort is difficult, as there can be several different causes.

What are the causes?

Allergic Reaction
Most reactions to tattoos are relatively minor and do not require medical attention. Applications of aloe vera or specialty products made for tattoos can help relieve the discomfort of the reaction. Rarely, severe reactions, such as anaphylactic shock, can occur at the time the tattoo is being applied; in those cases, treatment should be administered immediately by a medical professional.

Allergic reactions to the tattoo ink used is usually the first thing that comes to the mind of the sufferer, but is probably the least likely to be the case. However, allergic reactions to ink can and do happen sometimes – especially with red and yellow, or colors that contain red or yellow. An allergic reaction does not necessarily happen immediately – it can appear a week after receiving a tattoo or years down the road. An ink allergy will be itchy and raised only in spots of the particular color and is more likely to be a constant irritation rather than one that comes and goes. Topical ointments made for allergic reactions may help to relieve mild irritation, while a prescription drug or even tattoo removal may be required for more serious cases.

Body Chemistry
Changes inside your body can affect you on the outside, too. A rise in blood pressure, increased adrenaline, a change in body temperature – all of these things can affect your tattoo. If you notice your tattoo is itchy and uncomfortable, think about what you’ve been doing recently and you might find a connection. Usually stopping this activity for a period of time will cause the tattoo to feel better on its own.

Skin Conditions
You may discover that you have some kind of skin condition you didn’t even know you had, but your tattoo may be more sensitive to it. A skin condition can be as mild as dry skin or as severe as eczema, although the latter isn’t going to surface just because of a tattoo. If you believe you have some kind of skin condition, a visit to a dermatologist may help to relieve any body itching, including your tattoo.

Who Should Avoid Getting a Tattoo?
It is important for anyone who is considering getting a tattoo to know what they are going to get. People with sensitive skin or allergies to some metals need to know what is in the tattoo inks the artist will be using. Anyone who has a history of severe allergic reactions to metals or any other ingredient that may be contained in tattoo ink should avoid getting a tattoo, or should find an artist who uses hypoallergenic pigments.

There are many ways to help stop the itching of a tattoo that is healing that doesn't involve actually scratching it.
Slapping the tattoo is a way to stop the itch. However, some people might find this either very painful or difficult depending on where on their body the tattoo is. Rubbing lotion on the tattoo helps alleviate some itching. Just remember not to use lotion until the second or third day after you have gotten the tattoo.

Running cold water over the tattoo is quite effective at controlling itch. As with slapping, if your tattoo is in a hard to reach area this might not be an easy task. Using ice is also a good way to go. Ice and cold water both numb the area temporarily so your body cannot register the itching sensation.

Talk to your artist if slapping, ice, cold water or lotion are just not working. He may have other ideas on how to stop your tattoo from itching.

How to recognize an infection or improper work:
The most common symptoms of the skin infections caused, due to tattooing, are inflammation on and around the tattooed part of the body. Usually, the skin near the area becomes tender to touch. There may even be a swelling or discharge of blood from the spot. It is not common that after undergoing the process of tattooing, a person falls sick. Continuous pain even after 48 hours, can lead to skin infection.

Remember: Never, ever scratch a new tattoo. Bacteria from your nails can cause an infection or you can cause scarring to your tattoo.

CHECK OUT:

Tattoos & Tanning
Tattoo Scarring
Tattoo Scabbing
Tattoo Fading
Sweating & Tattoos
Signs Of Tattoo Allergy
Proper Tattoo Healing