tattoo infection

I got a tattoo on my foot 8 days ago. It was my first one so I wasn't sure what to expect. My whole foot was swollen for the first 6 days and then 2 days ago what I thought was just thick scabbing started oozing puss. It caused the scabs to break open in several small places. It is very sore. Should I keep it covered to stop dirt from getting into the open places or should I let it air out? Also, is there anything I should be putting on it or just wash it with soap and water?

You should be showing a tattoo artist or doctor your foot. The internet cant really help you.

If you do consult a doctor, I'd be interested in what the diagnosis and prognosis is. I've run into a similar problem on both feet after doing too many sessions too soon. It's been nearly two weeks since the last work was done, and still the areas are cracked, blistered and painful. There hasn't been any pus, but the areas look absolutely horrible, surrounded by a cloud of immflamation. Today was the first day that the swelling finally started to subside. Needless to say, work on this project will be halted until this problem is resolved. TCE

Listen to Gabe ...see your artist ANd a doctor...Tim send pics!...TAZ

TAz, I'll see if I can get something to send to you today. This would be another great topic that should be brought up before people consider getting a tattoo on the foot. I'm sure most of them come off without a hitch, but this last month of some really fucked up, painful healing was more than I ever bargained for going into this. I got over zealous in wanting to complete the work as soon as possible, and as it turned out, two weeks in between sessions is just not enough time for the previous work to heal sufficiently. Seeing the results of how the body reacts, It's been pretty scary at times when I start thinking about the worst case scenario. Oh well, live and learn, cuz most of us just don't listen. Thanks Pal! TCE