While the popularity of tattoos, with a vast variety of messages, seems to be on a steady increase, there are still some very important safety considerations which cannot be ignored

. Especially in the warmer months of the year, many experience and have questions about raised and itchy tattoos

. Most people who suffer with this condition typically describe the discomfort being occasional rather than consistent, or sometimes either

. There may actually be one of several different causes and it is important for proper treatment to find the precise cause

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. Let's consider some of the most common causes and then examine possible courses of treatment

. The tattoo ink being the source of an allergic reaction comes to mind immediately, but is not a likely causative factor

. While there are occasions where allergic reactions to ink occur, the reaction could be immediate, a week later, or years from the original tattoo application

. Red and yellow inks seem to be the most likely colors to cause an allergic reaction

. Changes in the body chemistry due to illness and/or aging may adversely affect areas that once were originally benign

. Ink allergies will be itchy and raised only in spots of the particular color

. With the ink allergies, the irritation is more common, not peaking and waning

. For mild irritations, topical ointments may help to relieve symptoms, but a prescription drug or even tattoo removal is recommended for more severe cases

. Weather is most often the cause of the consistent, yet possibly mild, irritation

. It may only be noticeable during the summer months

. Seasonal increases in temperature and humidity may cause swelling of a tattoo, and thus, some itching and irritation

. As the swelling proceeds, there's a slight stretching of the skin, causing an itchy sensation

. If your tattoo has had a long time to heal, it won't likely be damaged by scratching, but best to avoid any mechanical irritation

. For relief of itching and irritating symptoms, use topical creams, ice packs or cool water for relief

. The overall health of your body can affect your tattoo site, as well

. Increases in blood pressure, adrenaline, or changes in body temperature - will render some affect on the tattoo site

. Always try to pay attention to any irritations or skin injuries at or near the tattoo site

. Many folks who suffer with eczema may have irritation problems with their tattoo, as well

. Some skin conditions are so minor that symptoms are not apparent until a reaction forms at the more sensitive skin, the tattoo site

. Of course, also be careful about the placement and design compatibility

. I often joke about seeing a tattooed on dragon turn into a green zebra over time

. Ink can smudge and stretch as your body changes

. If your tattoo ever gets smudged or you decide that you no longer want it, it's important to know your options for tattoo removal

. Unfortunately, removal methods are harsh, painful, and usually result in scarring

. You can avoid this by following the pointers we outline shortly, when we talk about trust

. Research, research, research! You can't do enough

. It's like thinking about your first mortgage

. Buying a house is a big thing, but it is not exactly permanently modifying your body

. But you looked at every loan facility under the sun to find the perfect one for you

. Same for the parlor you will be going to for your tattoo

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