Tattoo Infection: Signs, Causes, Treatment and Prevention
Updated: 3 days ago
Medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: October 2026
Quick Answer: What does an infected tattoo look and feel like?
An infected tattoo may develop bumps, pus-filled pustules, larger nodules, redness or swelling. It may also become increasingly painful or sore and cause itchiness, fever, chills, inflammation or sweats. Signs may involve the full tattoo or only specific colors. Because infections can become severe, seek medical attention promptly when you notice concerning changes. [1]
What the research says
Contaminated ink and poor hygiene are recognized sources of tattoo infection. A systematic review identified 67 published cases from 1984 to 2015 of mostly serious bacterial infections after tattooing, including local infections such as abscesses and necrotizing fasciitis and systemic infections such as endocarditis and septic shock. Published surveys showed that opened and unopened ink bottles frequently contained clinically relevant levels of bacteria, and in the authors' own survey 2 of 39 colorants were contaminated. Inappropriate hygiene in tattoo parlors and non-medical wound care were major risk factors (Dieckmann et al., Dtsch Arztebl Int, 2016). [2]
A "sterile" label does not guarantee uncontaminated ink. In a laboratory study of 75 commercial tattoo and permanent-makeup inks, 26 were contaminated, yielding 34 bacterial isolates from 14 genera, 19 of which were possibly pathogenic. No significant association was found between sterility claims on the label and the absence of contamination (Yoon et al., Appl Environ Microbiol, 2024). [3]
Fever and chills after a tattoo can signal a bloodstream infection, even without obvious skin changes. A systematic review of 17 manuscripts on systemic tattoo-related infections (2009–2019) reported one fatality. Septic shock was associated with cellulitis or necrotizing fasciitis within two weeks of the procedure, mainly caused by Staphylococcus aureus or streptococci, and the authors advised considering bacterial bloodstream infection in anyone who develops fever and rigors after a tattoo, regardless of local symptoms (Rello et al., Med Clin (Barc), 2022). [4]
What is a tattoo infection?
A tattoo infection is a skin infection that occurs in tattooed skin. Most are limited to the tattoo, but rare infections can become severe or spread to other organs. [1]
Tattooing uses a mechanical needle to deposit ink deep into the skin. The process triggers an immune response and permanently traps ink within skin cells. In some people, it also introduces or contributes to infection. [1]
Two common forms are superficial infections that affect only the outer skin layer, such as impetigo, and deep bacterial infections. Examples of deep infections include erysipelas, cellulitis and sepsis. [1]
Infection type | What it means |
Superficial infection | Affects only the outer layer of skin. |
Deep bacterial infection | Can include erysipelas, cellulitis or sepsis. |
How quickly can a tattoo become infected?
Some tattoo infections occur shortly after getting a tattoo. Others develop over time and may not be noticed until months later. [1]
Any tattoo carries some risk of infection, even when an experienced artist works in a shop that looks clean and sterile. Risk also exists with at-home tattoo kits and ceremonial tattoos. [1]
What does an infected tattoo look like?
Signs may appear across the entire tattoo or only within specific colors. Possible changes include bumps called papules, some of which may contain pus and are called pustules. Larger bumps on or below the skin are called nodules. Redness and swelling can also occur. [1]
Visible change | Plain-language description |
Papules | Small bumps on the skin. |
Pustules | Bumps that may contain pus. |
Nodules | Larger bumps on or below the skin. |
Redness | Skin becomes visibly red. |
Swelling | Tattooed skin becomes puffy or enlarged. |
Color-specific changes | Signs appear in only some colors rather than across the whole tattoo. |
What does a tattoo infection feel like?
An infected tattoo may become increasingly painful or sore. It may also itch or feel inflamed. Whole-body signs can include chills, fever and sweats. [1]
Sensation or symptom | What to know |
Worsening pain | Pain increases rather than gradually settling. |
Soreness | Tattooed skin remains tender or painful. |
Itchiness | The affected area feels itchy. |
Inflammation | Skin may become inflamed or develop dermatitis. |
Fever or chills | Whole-body symptoms may accompany the infection. |
Sweats | Sweating can occur with infection symptoms. |
What causes tattoo infections?
Common causes include reactions to tattoo ink and ink diluted with nonsterile water. Other possible sources include nonsterile needles, unclean skin, poor sterilization practices and secondary infection during healing. [1]
Contaminated tattoo ink
Ink containers marked "sterile" may still contain bacteria or other substances. Contamination can occur after ink leaves the manufacturer, even if the container is sealed. Reactions may also come from the ink itself. [1]
Ink is often made from or includes substances that may be harmful, including animal-based additives, calligraphy ink, chemicals such as pH stabilizers and coating agents, metal salts, and pigments used in printer toner and car paint. [1]
Nonsterile water
Artists may dilute ink with water to achieve a particular color. Microorganisms in tap and distilled water can lead to infection. A newly opened container of sterile water can lower this risk. [1]
Needles, skin and sterilization
Nonsterile needles, skin that has not been cleaned, and failure to follow sterilization practices can introduce bacteria. A secondary infection can also happen while tattooed skin is healing. [1]
Which bacteria can cause a tattoo infection?
Bacteria found in contaminated ink or nonsterile water may include nontuberculous Mycobacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species. A healthcare provider may use laboratory testing to identify the bacteria and help choose appropriate treatment. [1]
Can a tattoo infection happen at a clean or licensed shop?
Yes. Any tattoo carries infection risk, even when an experienced artist works in a shop that appears clean and sterile. Infection risk also exists with at-home kits and ceremonial tattoos. [1]
A licensed artist and shop may lower risk, but licensing and a clean appearance do not make infection impossible. Ask about the ink used and sterilization practices before the procedure.
What complications can tattoo infections cause?
Severe tattoo infections may lead to endocarditis, organ failure or sepsis, which can lead to septic shock. Organ failure occurs when the kidneys, liver or other organs can no longer do their jobs. [1]
Because infection can become serious, seek medical treatment right away when you notice signs of an infected tattoo.
How is a tattoo infection diagnosed?
Healthcare providers can often confirm a tattoo infection based on symptoms alone. Laboratory tests may be needed to determine which bacteria is causing the infection. Identifying the bacteria can help the provider choose appropriate therapy. [1]
Diagnostic approach | Why it may be used |
Symptom assessment | Identify visible and whole-body signs of infection. |
Skin evaluation | Examine the tattoo and surrounding skin. |
Laboratory testing | Identify bacteria and support treatment decisions. |
How are tattoo infections treated?
Antibiotics are a common treatment. Depending on the diagnosis and severity, more than one antibiotic may be needed. Many people need these medicines for up to six weeks. [1]
Severe infections may require antibiotics given through a vein, known as IV antibiotics. Surgery may be needed when an infection does not respond to antibiotics, and more than one procedure may be required to remove all affected skin. [1]
Treatment must be selected by a qualified healthcare provider. Do not delay medical evaluation while trying to manage a potentially infected tattoo on your own.
Infection severity or response | Possible care |
Typical infection | Antibiotics are commonly used. |
More complex infection | Multiple antibiotics may be needed. |
Severe infection | IV antibiotics may be necessary. |
Infection not responding to antibiotics | Surgery may be required; more than one procedure may be needed. |
What should you do if you think a tattoo is infected?
Contact a healthcare provider promptly when you notice worsening pain, redness, swelling, pus-filled bumps, nodules, fever, chills, sweats or other concerning changes. Seek medical treatment right away.
If the tattoo was done at a shop, let the shop know about the infection. The shop may be able to tell the healthcare provider what type of ink was used and may be able to help prevent other people from becoming infected. [1]
In the US, you can also contact the FDA's MedWatch program, which investigates issues and works with other agencies when medical product safety concerns arise. Elsewhere, your local health authority may accept reports. [1]
How long does a tattoo infection take to heal?
People with mild to moderate infections often make a full recovery, but recovery can take several months. Severe infections may require longer or more intensive treatment. The course depends on the diagnosis, the bacteria involved and the severity of the infection. [1]
How can you lower the risk of tattoo infection?
Choosing a licensed tattoo artist and shop may lower infection risk. In some places you can check with your health department about complaint activity against the shop. [1]
Ask the artist what kind of ink they use and about their sterilization practices. The artist should wear gloves at all times and use sterile wipes to clean your skin before, during and after the tattoo. You should receive detailed healing instructions and follow them.
Before or during tattooing | Healing period |
Choose a licensed artist and shop. | Receive detailed aftercare instructions. |
Check complaint activity with your health department where possible. | Follow the instructions while the tattoo heals. |
Ask about ink. | Watch for changes in appearance or sensation. |
Ask about sterilization practices. | Contact a healthcare provider if concerning changes appear. |
Confirm gloves are worn. | Seek medical treatment right away if infection signs develop. |
Confirm sterile wipes are used to clean skin. | Do not delay care if symptoms worsen. |
What else can affect tattooed skin?
Tattooing can cause irritation and chronic skin disease in addition to infection. If you notice changes in the look or feel of tattooed skin, contact a healthcare provider. Lichen planus, skin cancer and vitiligo are chronic skin diseases that tattoos can cause. For background on how skin works, see our guide: Skin: Anatomy, Function, and Health. [1]
Conclusion: Do not ignore changes in a healing tattoo
Tattoo infections can be superficial or deep, and they may appear shortly after tattooing or months later. Watch for bumps, pus, nodules, redness, swelling, worsening pain, soreness, itchiness, fever, chills or sweats. [1]
Infections can result from contaminated ink, nonsterile water, needles, unclean skin, poor sterilization or a secondary infection during healing. Providers may diagnose infection from symptoms and use lab tests to identify bacteria. Antibiotics are the common treatment; severe infections may need IV antibiotics or surgery. [1]
If your tattoo looks or feels increasingly abnormal, seek medical treatment right away. [1]
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the first signs of a tattoo infection?
Possible signs include bumps, pustules, nodules, redness, swelling, worsening pain, soreness, itchiness, fever, chills or sweats.
Can a tattoo become infected months later?
Yes. Some infections develop over time and may not be noticed until months after tattooing.
Can only one color in a tattoo become infected?
Yes. Signs of infection may appear across the entire tattoo or only within specific colors.
Can a licensed tattoo shop guarantee that infection will not happen?
No. Any tattoo carries infection risk, even when an experienced artist works in a shop that looks clean and sterile.
What bacteria can cause a tattoo infection?
Nontuberculous Mycobacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species may be found in contaminated ink or nonsterile water.
How is a tattoo infection diagnosed?
Providers can often confirm infection from symptoms. Lab tests may identify the bacteria causing it and support treatment selection.
What is the treatment for an infected tattoo?
Antibiotics are common. Depending on severity, multiple antibiotics, IV antibiotics or surgery may be needed.
How long does tattoo infection treatment take?
Many people need antibiotics for up to six weeks, and mild to moderate infections may take several months to fully recover.
Should I tell the tattoo shop about an infection?
Yes. Telling the shop may help your healthcare provider identify the ink and may help prevent infections in others.
How can I prevent a tattoo infection?
Use a licensed artist and shop, ask about the ink and sterilization practices, confirm gloves and sterile wipes are used, and follow detailed healing instructions. Prevention is not guaranteed.
Related guides
References
Cleveland Clinic. Tattoo Infection: Signs, Causes, Treatment & Prevention. Cleveland Clinic. Updated June 20, 2022. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23295-tattoo-infection
Dieckmann R, Boone I, Brockmann SO, et al. The Risk of Bacterial Infection After Tattooing. Dtsch Arztebl Int. 2016;113(40):665-671. PMID 27788747. https://doi.org/10.3238/arztebl.2016.0665
Yoon S, Kondakala S, Foley SL, et al. Detection of anaerobic and aerobic bacteria from commercial tattoo and permanent makeup inks. Appl Environ Microbiol. 2024;90(7):e0027624. PMID 38953654. https://doi.org/10.1128/aem.00276-24
Rello J, Tejada S, Campogiani L, et al. Systemic infections associated with tattoos or permanent makeup: A systematic review. Med Clin (Barc). 2022;158(4):159-166. PMID 33902933. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.medcli.2021.01.014
Medical disclaimer
This article is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions about a medical condition or treatment.
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