What is the Tattoo Flu?

Getting a new tattoo is exciting! You've gone through the process, the art is fresh, and you're ready to show it off. However, in the day or two following your session, you might start to feel… off. This feeling—characterized by fatigue, mild fever, and general malaise—is commonly nicknamed the "tattoo flu." Ummm.. okay, what is the tattoo flu??? It's not a true influenza virus, but rather your body's natural, intense reaction to the stress and trauma of being tattooed.

Why You Need to Learn About What the Tattoo Flu is

While most people focus on the aftercare of the skin, understanding the symptoms of tattoo flu is crucial for a smooth overall recovery. Knowing what is the tattoo flu and what's normal can prevent unnecessary panic and help you take the right steps to support your immune system. By recognizing these signs, you can plan for a period of rest, ensuring your body is focused on healing the wound and leaving you with a beautiful, fully-healed piece of art.

Symptoms of Tattoo Flu

The symptoms of tattoo flu typically mirror a mild cold or flu, but they are a result of your body's inflammatory response, not a contagious virus.

Common symptoms of tattoo flu include:

• Mild Fever or Chills: Your body's temperature may rise slightly as your immune system goes into overdrive.

• Fatigue and Lethargy: You may feel unusually tired, heavy, or drained. This is a common response to physical stress.

• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches can accompany the fever and general bodily stress.

• Swollen Lymph Nodes: Lymph nodes near the tattooed area (e.g., in the armpit for an arm tattoo, or groin for a leg tattoo) may swell. This is a sign that your lymphatic system is actively fighting off potential pathogens and cleaning up cellular debris.

• General Malaise: A feeling of discomfort, illness, or uneasiness throughout the body.

Why Tattoo Flu Happens

The tattooing process involves repeatedly puncturing the skin with needles to deposit ink into the dermis layer. To your body, this is a form of trauma and a large open wound (especially for large or long sessions). Answering the core question of what is the tattoo flu comes down to this strong immune response:

• Inflammation: The body immediately sends white blood cells and plasma to the wound site to clean up damaged cells and protect against infection.

• Adrenaline and Stress: Longer sessions, in particular, keep your body in a high-stress, high-adrenaline state. Once the adrenaline wears off, the body crashes, leading to exhaustion.

• Compromised Immunity: Your immune system becomes heavily focused on the tattooed area. This temporarily lowers your systemic immunity, making you feel generally run down.

How Long Tattoo Flu Lasts

For most people, the physical effects related to what is the tattoo flu are short-lived.

• Symptoms usually begin within 12 to 24 hours after the tattoo session.

• They typically peak and resolve within 1 to 3 days following your appointment.

If symptoms persist beyond three days or significantly worsen, you should consider that it may be a genuine illness or a sign of an issue with the healing process.

5 Tips to Recover Faster in Denver, CO

A little self-care goes a long way in speeding up your recovery from the tattoo flu. Since Low Side Tattoo is right here in Englewood, CO, we know that getting enough rest and staying hydrated are key steps you can take in the mile-high city. Prioritizing your well-being in the first few days post-tattoo is essential for a beautiful final result.

Here are five detailed tips to help you feel better quickly and optimize your healing process:

1. Prioritize Deep Rest and Quality Sleep

Your body performs the most critical repairs and immune functions while you sleep. Treat the tattoo flu seriously, just like you would a mild cold. Clear your schedule for the first day or two, lay on the couch, and let your body dedicate its energy to healing. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality, uninterrupted sleep. Prioritize restful sleeping with a new tattoo. Rest is non-negotiable for a strong recovery.

2. Stay Hyper-Hydrated, Especially in Altitude

In Denver and Englewood, the mile-high altitude naturally increases the rate at which your body loses moisture, making hydration even more critical. Drinking plenty of water supports your lymphatic system (which is working hard to clean up the trauma site) and aids your immune system. Good hydration also keeps your skin cells healthy, which is vital for the healing tattoo. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, as these can dehydrate you further and negatively impact your recovery.

3. Fuel Your Body with Nutrient-Rich Foods

Your immune system is currently running a marathon, and it needs high-quality fuel. Focus on eating nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods. Look for ingredients rich in:

• Vitamin C: Found in citrus fruits, bell peppers, and broccoli (supports immune function).

• Zinc: Found in nuts, seeds, and meat (crucial for wound healing).

• Lean Protein: Essential building blocks for repairing damaged skin tissue.

Avoid heavy, processed sugars and deep-fried foods, which can promote inflammation and slow down your immune response.

4. Strategically Use Over-the-Counter (OTC) Relief

If you are experiencing mild fever, persistent headaches, or significant body aches—all common symptoms of tattoo flu—over-the-counter pain relievers can provide comfort. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage the discomfort, mild fever, and localized swelling. Crucially, always follow the recommended dosages on the package. If you are unsure about which medication is right for you due to existing health conditions or other medications, consult a pharmacist or doctor first.

5. Be Meticulous with Aftercare (No Excuses!)

The single biggest factor that can worsen tattoo flu symptoms is a developing infection, which forces your immune system to work even harder. Following the precise tattoo aftercare instructions provided by your artist at Low Side Tattoo is your best defense.

• Wash your hands before touching the tattoo.

• Clean the tattoo gently with mild, unscented soap.

• Apply a thin layer of recommended moisturizer.

• Avoid soaking the tattoo in baths, pools, or hot tubs.

What is the Tattoo Flu Doing to Me!? Here’s When to Seek Help

While the "tattoo flu" is normal, it should not be severe or last long. You should contact your artist or, more importantly, a healthcare professional if you experience severe symptoms of tattoo flu, such as:

• A High Fever: Any temperature over 101 degrees that doesn't resolve quickly.

• Severe or Spreading Redness: Red streaks spreading away from the tattoo site.

• Excessive or Foul-Smelling Discharge: Pus or unusual drainage from the tattoo.

• Pain that Worsens: Increased pain that is disproportionate to the size of the tattoo.

These can be signs of a serious infection, which requires immediate medical attention.

Maintaining excellent hygiene prevents pathogens from entering the open wound, keeping your immune system focused on simple healing rather than fighting a major battle.

We Know Our Tattooing Skills Are Sick, But We Don’t Want You Getting the Tattoo Flu

At Low Side Tattoo in Englewood, we are committed to providing you with a clean, safe, and professional experience from start to finish. Feeling a little rundown is a normal part of the healing journey for many, and it's a small price to pay for stunning, permanent art you get to show off for life! Listen to your body, give yourself time to recover, and follow our aftercare instructions diligently. Understanding what the tattoo flu is your first step toward a successful recovery!

Ready to book your next piece with artists who prioritize your safety and comfort? Contact us today!