Getting a tattoo is usually pretty meaningful for people. Quotes, song lyrics, various illustrations—there are so many possibilities. Tattoos can come in either black and grey, or in full color. There are also people who get tattoos for aesthetic purposes or just for fun. Whatever the reason, getting a tattoo is definitely a life-changing experience.

After a tattoo gets inked, the person who got it will go through a healing process. Part of that is an itching sensation that starts a week or so in.

Red Ink in Tattoos

Whether it's in food or on the skin, one of the most problematic dyes out there is the red one. It's been linked to aggression and amplifying childrens' attention disorders. Red food dye can be rooted in natural sources like the cochineal bug, referred to as carmine. On the other hand, manufacturing is also possible: Red Dye #40, an artificial food color. They're entirely allergenic to the point of a blatant label being necessary for carmine.

Red ink in tattoos is far more likely to trigger allergies than other tattoo ink color options. There's a lot of staying power in red pigment. That certainly plays a factor in how much it's used in tattoo work. Aside from a higher likelihood to cause itching, full-blown red ink allergies have more intensity. It's usually because there are many heavy metals in it. Cinnabar, a metal-based in mercury, was found in red ink quite typically in the past. 

Over time, organic pigments that no longer contain mercury (such as azo dyes) have risen to the occasion. Polychromatic tattoos have them in use more often than not since their color is long-staying.

That said, there are also allergies to the red organic pigments used in tattoos. Chemical analysis has been done, which shows a mix of the following:

• Azo compounds (ex. quinacridone)

• Heavy metals (ex. aluminum, cadmium, chromium, cobalt, iron, lead, titanium)

• Intermediative reactive compounds (ex. 2-naphthol, benzene, chlorobenzene, naphthalene)

However, it should be noted that it's more of a general overview than anything. That's because red organic tattoo pigments' compositions tend to vary.

How Can Red Ink Tattoos Heal Better?

Stay Away From Wool

Particularly scratchy fabrics can aggravate tattoos. The worst-case scenario is that a number of itchy red bumps appear on the tattoo. While there are many anti-itch creams on the market that can help, the overall pain may linger for days.

Use Creams and Balms Available Over the Counter

One of the best ways to alleviate itching is through hydrocortisone. In some cases, there may be contact dermatitis because of the red ink. Cortisone cream will work wonders for the rash.

When All Else Fails: Contact a Doctor

If there's a persistent allergic reaction that's unresponsive, seek medical advice. This is particularly crucial if a nodule of any kind appears.

Conclusion

Tattoos are well-loved and seen as a form of art in many parts of the world. However, if you’re going to get inked with red, there’s a likelihood of intense itching. Help the healing along with creams and balms available over the counter, staying away from wool, and contacting a doctor if all else fails.

Looking to get inked by one of the best full color tattoo shops? Reach out to Certified Tattoo today! We’re Colorado’s premier destination for tattoos.