Tattoos are basically an open wound. The tiny cuts and scrapes in your skin will itch as they heal and scab over, which is totally normal. You may also feel itching as the hair in the area grows back, especially if you’re not used to shaving that part of your body. You can tell that it’s not just normal healing if your tattoo looks raised, inflamed, or feels painful.

Infections typically happen when the tattoo ink has been contaminated or mixed with something besides tattoo ink (like water). [3] X Trustworthy Source US Food and Drug Administration U. S. government agency responsible for promoting public health Go to source

Most people are allergic to red ink, but you can be allergic to any color of ink. Some people develop an allergy to tattoo ink after certain medical treatments, like antiretroviral treatment for HIV or joint surgery. Researchers aren’t quite sure why, but there seems to be a pattern there.

Psoriasis Eczema Vitiligo Lichen planus Keloid Sarcoidosis Scars Skin cancer

You can also use an ice pack wrapped in a towel.

Lotion is okay for new tattoos, since it’s important to keep them moisturized as they heal. Just be sure to use mild, fragrance-free moisturizer.

You cannot put sunscreen on a tattoo until it’s fully healed, so stick to covering up with clothing until your tattoo is no longer fresh.

Many skin conditions can be treated with topical medication.

Depending on the size and color of your tattoo, you’ll likely need multiple rounds of tattoo removal to get rid of it completely.