Why am I so tired after a tattoo?

Author: Kory Nitzsche  |  Last update: Sunday, August 3, 2025

Tattoo flu is essentially your body's reaction to the trauma of getting tattooed, resulting in symptoms like fatigue, chills, and even slight fever. This can be alarming for those new to tattoos, leaving them to wonder if something has gone wrong.

Is it normal to be tired after getting a tattoo?

Yes it's usually normal to feel tired/drained. It's your body's response to ``trauma/injury'' aka having a needle dug into into skin for hours. I'd drink water, eat and I'd stay away from most pain killers as they are more than likely blood thinners which is not good for a healing tattoo.

How long is the tattoo flu?

Antibiotics are a common treatment for tattoo infections. Depending on the diagnosis and severity, it may take multiple antibiotics to clear the infection. Many people need to be on these drugs for up to six weeks.

Can tattoo ink make you tired?

If you don't eat and maintain blood sugar, tattooing activates your body's fight or flight response and you will body will release adrenaline which will flood your system with glucose, once the adrenaline subsides your blood sugar will drop and you will feel tired, and under the weather.

Do tattoos affect your energy?

Definitely part of the healing process no matter how big the piece is, especially for your first time. Tattoos are essentially big wounds while they heal and your body goes into overdrive to fix the ``problem.'' That uses energy, diverting it from elsewhere because your body sees it as top priority.

Feeling Sick After Getting a Tattoo? | Dealing With TATTOO FLU

Do tattoos have negative health effects?

A skin infection is possible after getting a tattoo. An infection might be due to contaminated ink or equipment that isn't sterilized correctly. Getting a tattoo at a studio that doesn't follow good safety steps also can raise your risk of a skin infection. Other skin problems.

Which tattoo gives positive energy?

Which tattoo gives positive energy? Tattoos that are believed to bring positive energy often include symbols of protection and balance, such as the Hamsa hand, which wards off negative energy, or the Eye of Horus, an ancient Egyptian symbol for protection, health, and power.

Why do tattoos make me sleepy?

not everyone, but most of us feel suuuuuper tired after a tattoo session— which is totally normal! tattoos can induce a lot of inflammation & stress on our bodies. my post-tattoo ritual is usually a nice hot meal, a full glass of water, & a nice long nap!

Who should not get tattoos?

If you have a medical problem such as heart disease, allergies, diabetes, skin problems like eczema or psoriasis, a weak immune system, or a bleeding problem, talk to your doctor before getting a tattoo. Also, if you get keloids (an overgrowth of scar tissue) you probably should not get a tattoo.

Why do I feel unwell after a tattoo?

When the skin is punctured by needles, the body reacts to this trauma and the ink as foreign substances. The immune system works hard to heal the skin and fight off potential infections. This response can cause the body to exhibit flu-like symptoms as it tries to recover and protect itself.

Is it good to rest after a tattoo?

Take a short break from any sports activities for 1 to 2 weeks after the tattoo: the epidermis needs to rest to heal properly. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to avoid chafing, which slows healing.

Why am I shaky and tired after tattoo?

It's normal to feel a bit run down and tired after a long tattoo session, but if you begin to feel feverish or have the shakes, this could be a sign you have an infection.

What snacks are good for tattoos?

Drinks and Snacks

Getting tattooed, even if it's not hurting you too much, still causes reactions within your body which drain your energy reserves. I recommend an energy/cereal bar or some sweets or chocolate.

Why do tattoo lines get thicker?

Natural migration of pigment in the skin is manifested by: lines become visually wider; a small (about a millimeter) shadow may appear near the tattoo lines; there will be less empty space between the lines.

What are the stages of tattoo healing?

While there's some variability to the healing process, generally, there are three broad stages of tattoo healing:
  • Inflammation (Days 1-3) ...
  • Visible recovery (Days 4-14) ...
  • Invisible recovery (Days 14-30) ...
  • On the day. ...
  • 1-48 hours. ...
  • 48hrs – 14 days. ...
  • The sun. ...
  • Scented soap.

Does getting a tattoo drain your energy?

Don't panic. This “tattoo flu” is pretty common and should fade into memory in a few days (unlike your new tattoo). Your body's immune system is making you feel wiped out while it attacks potential threats to your bod. Be on the lookout for a mild fever, chills, fatigue, and some tummy discomfort.

How long does tattoo flu last?

The first symptoms before admission mimicked a gastroenteritis and influenza, fever resolved by day 5-6 after initial symptoms (Fig. 3A), skin change with erythematous rash was observed on day 3, and desquamation was shown on day 7-9.

Is it normal to sleep after a tattoo?

Sleep is crucial after getting a tattoo as it significantly aids the body's natural healing process. When we sleep, our bodies enter a state of repair, increasing the production of growth hormones and white blood cells, which are key to healing the skin trauma caused by tattooing.

What is the luckiest tattoo for females?

Common motifs include four-leaf clovers, horseshoes, ladybugs, and even numbers like seven or eight, which are considered lucky in various cultures. These symbols are not just mere decorations; they are imbued with centuries of folklore and superstition, making them powerful personal talismans.

What does the tattoo 777 mean?

The meaning of a 777 tattoo is luck. 777 is a powerful and meaningful number in many cultures and religions. It is often seen as a sign of completion and. #

What is the tattoo for anxiety?

Anchor: Anchors are a symbol of stability and grounding, representing the wearer's ability to stay calm and secure even in stormy seas. Birds in Flight: Often representing freedom and perspective, birds in flight can symbolize the liberation from anxiety's grip and the broader view of life's landscape.

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