Q&A for How to Tell if a Tattoo Is Infected

Tattoo artists often know more about tattoo care than medical professionals. Sometimes the normal healing process, which can include bloody or inky discharge around the tattoo, looks like the beginning of an infection. This is especially true for large or colored tattoos. The artist is often the best person to evaluate any issues you have, so try contacting the studio and scheduling a visit if you have questions.

Always use a clean cloth or towel when cleaning your tattoo. Towels often hold bacteria and other grime that can actually cause infection instead of preventing it. Choose a clean towel that you'll only use on your tattoo and keep it separate from other towels to prevent contamination.

You shouldn't keep the cling film on for more than a couple of hours after getting a tattoo. Once you remove it, wash the area since bacteria can breed beneath the film.

Yes, you can use coconut oil on the area, as long as you aren't allergic to it. If you haven't used coconut oil before, test it on a small area of your skin away from the tattoo site and wait to see if the skin becomes raised or you develop a rash.