AboutThe GYPSY - Professional Tattoo Artist and Body Piercer Expertise I can accept questions on proper tattooing and piercing procedures, including but not limited to, licensing, sterilization, studio promotion, safety, what to look for in an artist/studio, aftercare, apprenticeship, studio management and proper design/piercing placement. I can also rate artistic quality. We also can answer questions on tattoo/piercing resources, ie; books, videos, studios and artists/piercers. PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING BEFORE ASKING YOUR QUESTION: I will NOT answer "How To" questions. If you want to know how to tattoo or pierce do the right thing and seek out a formal apprenticeship. Tattooing and piercing are not a "Learn On Your Own" professions. ALSO: Please DO NOT ask me about tattoo or piercing prices. Rates vary from region to region. You will need to check with studios in your area for their current rates.
Experience
Past/Present clients I tattoo/pierce over 1200 people per year. Multiply that by 31 years and I have tattooed and/or pierced approx. 37,200 people.
The GYPSY founder of Skin Art Creations Tattoo Emporium® is a State of Kansas licensed Tattoo & Piercing Artist & Trainer and has been in the Tattoo & Piercing Industry since 1976. He is a Professional Member of APT (Alliance of Professional Tattooist), and has taken and passed the APT Tattoo Mastery Test. His formal art training and experience has helped him win numerous awards both Nationally and Internationally. The GYPSY's art has been exhibited in museums World wide, including the Smithsonian. He has also appeared on television, documentaries, albums, radio talk shows and in numerous magazines. Along with his Wife Debbie they have developed and maintained numerous projects including resource and shopping sites. WE INVITE YOU TO VIST THESE SITES: www.ubtat2d.com - www.ablazable.com - www.emerald-city.us - www.sekpress.net - www.freaky-links.com and www.pluribusunum.net
Question I had shading and color work finished on large work on my arm and shoulder over 2 weeks ago. The shading was done in the Tebori style (Traditional Japanese hand poked). I was told that this method is more traumatic to the skin and takes a bit longer to heal. Most of the major flaking and peeling is done. I have a small patch of irritated blistery/pimply skin. All of this irritation is in the "black ink" area. I contacted the tattoo artist and I discontinued use of Aquaphor and Lubriderm. I also contacted my doctor who said let it dry out a couple days and check back if still irritated.
My question is... if this is an allergic reaction to ink and not skin care product, what is the future prognosis? Is this something that will affect the tattoo off and on forever, or will it clear up over time?
Thanks, Frank
Answer Frank,
The chances of it being a reaction to the black pigment are very rare. More than likely it was a reaction to the Aquaphor and Lubriderm (both products I strongly recommend NOT be used on a new tattoo). If it is a pigment reaction it could take as long as 5 years for total rejection to occur. The body will push it out in much the same way that it pushes out a splinter. But again, the chance of a "Black Reaction" (if professional grade tattoo pigment was used), are one in a Billion. Your Doctor told you correctly; Discontinue use of all ointments, creams and lotions. Let the tattoo dry out and the reaction should be gone within 14 days. If it is not then re-consult your physician.
I hope this has been of some help to you. If I can be of any further assistance please let me know.
