Infected Tattoo
Your new tattoo site has become infected. Tattoos can become infected from things such as unsterile tattooing methods. Following good skin care and cleaning instructions after getting a tattoo is important to prevent infection. But sometimes an infection can happen even when you use good hygiene.
An infected tattoo can cause red, swollen, or itchy skin, and fever. The area will be sore. You may see fluid or pus oozing from the tattoo. You may have a rash of itchy or painful bumps. These reactions can happen right away. Or they can happen weeks or even months later.
Depending on the cause of the infection, you may be prescribed antibiotics to be taken by mouth or applied to the skin. You may also need pain relievers. Infected tattoos can cause a pocket of pus (abscess). Your doctor may need to drain these pockets.
Home care
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Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and clean, running water before touching or caring for your tattoo.
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Make sure clothing is loose and does not rub against your tattoo.
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Other than cleaning your tattoo, try not to touch it until it begins to heal.
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Keep the skin clean. Wash it with clean, running water and a mild, unscented soap. Follow your doctor’s specific instructions on how often to wash your skin.
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Cover the tattoo with petroleum jelly and gauze or a bandage.
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If you were prescribed antibiotics, take the full course of treatment as directed. Do this even if you feel better sooner.
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Use sunscreen if you must be in the sun.
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Don’t swim, use a hot tub, or soak your tattoo in water until your doctor says it's okay.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your doctor as advised. If you are prescribed antibiotics and the infection doesn't go away on the first antibiotic, your doctor may need to prescribe a different one.
When to get medical advice
Contact your doctor right away if:
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Your infection doesn’t get better with treatment within 7 days, or as advised by your doctor.
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Red areas have spread.
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Swelling or pain gets worse.
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Fluid (pus) leaks from the skin.
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Open sores or bumps get worse or new ones form.
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You have a fever of 100.4ºF (38ºC) or higher after 2 days on antibiotics.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Daphne Pierce-Smith RN MSN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Melinda Murray Ratini DO
Online Medical Reviewer:
Rajadurai Samnishanth Researcher
Date Last Reviewed:
5/1/2025
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