What to do when your tattoo starts peeling

Are you worried that what to do when your tattoo starts peeling? So here is the answer to your query.

It’s normal for a tattoo to peel during the healing process, usually within the first week or two after getting it. Here are some tips on what to do when your tattoo starts peeling:

1. Don’t pick or scratch at the tattoo: It’s important not to pick or scratch at the tattoo, as this can cause damage to the healing skin and result in a patchy-looking tattoo.
2. Keep the tattoo clean: Use a mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water to gently clean the tattoo twice a day. Gently pat the area dry with a clean towel or let it air dry.
3. Apply a moisturizer: After cleaning, apply a thin layer of fragrance-free, non-petroleum-based moisturizer to the tattoo to keep the skin hydrated and prevent itching.
4. Avoid tight clothing: Tight clothing can rub against the tattoo and cause irritation, so it’s best to wear loose, comfortable clothing while the tattoo is healing.
5. Avoid sun exposure: Sun exposure can cause the tattoo to fade or become damaged, so it’s best to keep it covered or use a high-SPF sunscreen if you need to be outside.
6. Follow your artist’s aftercare instructions: Your tattoo artist may have specific instructions for caring for your tattoo, so be sure to follow them closely to ensure proper healing.

If you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus, or if the peeling lasts for an extended period of time, consult a medical professional or your tattoo artist.

Why does a tattoo start peeling? 

A tattoo starts peeling as a normal part of the healing process. During the tattooing process, the needle punctures the skin, which causes minor trauma to the area. As the body’s natural healing process begins, the skin around the tattoo will start to produce a layer of protective cells over the area, which can cause the tattoo to peel.

Peeling typically begins around 3-6 days after the tattoo is applied and can last for up to two weeks. During this time, the skin may appear dry and flaky as the dead skin cells are shed. It’s important to avoid picking or scratching the peeling skin, as this can damage the tattoo and slow down the healing process.

Stages of the tattoo peeling process

The peeling process is a normal part of the tattoo healing process and typically begins 3-6 days after getting a tattoo. Here are the stages of tattoo peeling:

1. The first stage is typically marked by a shiny or glossy appearance of the tattooed area. This is because the skin is still producing fluids to help heal the tattoo.
2. The second stage is when the tattoo starts to dry out and becomes itchy. This is when the peeling process begins, and the skin around the tattooed area will start to flake and peel.
3. The third stage is when the peeling becomes more prominent, and the skin may start to peel in larger flakes or sheets. This is because the dead skin cells are shedding, and the body is producing new skin cells to replace them.
4. The fourth stage is when the peeling starts to slow down, and the new skin cells begin to form a protective layer over the tattooed area. At this stage, the skin may still be slightly dry and flaky, but the peeling will have mostly subsided.

The peeling process typically lasts for around 1-2 weeks, depending on the size and location of the tattoo. It’s important to avoid picking or scratching at the peeling skin, as this can damage the tattoo and slow down the healing process. Instead, focus on keeping the tattoo clean and moisturized to promote healing and ensure that the tattoo heals properly.

Common mistakes to avoid in the tattoo peeling process

Here are the most common mistakes you must have to avoid that may make worsen your tattoo peeling.

1. Picking at the tattoo: Picking or scratching at the tattoo can cause damage to the healing skin and result in a patchy-looking tattoo. It’s important to resist the urge to scratch or pick at the tattoo, even if it feels itchy or uncomfortable.
2. Using harsh soaps or skincare products: Using harsh soaps or skincare products can strip the skin of its natural oils and irritate the healing skin around the tattoo. It’s important to use mild, fragrance-free soap and gentle moisturizers during the healing process.
3. Exposing the tattoo to sunlight: Sun exposure can cause the tattoo to fade or become damaged, so it’s important to avoid direct sunlight or use a high-SPF sunscreen if you need to be outside during the healing process.
4. Wearing tight or restrictive clothing: Tight clothing can rub against the tattoo and cause irritation, so it’s best to wear loose, comfortable clothing while the tattoo is healing.
5. Not following proper aftercare instructions: Your tattoo artist will provide you with specific aftercare instructions to follow during the healing process. It’s important to follow these instructions closely to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.
6. Over-moisturizing the tattoo: While it’s important to keep the tattoo moisturized, over-moisturizing can actually slow down the healing process and cause the tattoo to peel more. Follow your artist’s instructions on how often to apply moisturizer.

By avoiding these common mistakes and following proper aftercare instructions, you can ensure that your tattoo heals properly and looks great for years to come.

When do you have to seek professional help during tattoo peeling

While tattoo peeling is a normal part of the healing process, there are certain situations where you need to get help during the tattoo peeling process:

1. Signs of infection: If you notice signs of infection, such as excessive redness, swelling, or warmth around the tattoo, pus or discharge, or a fever, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Infections can be serious and may require antibiotics or other medical treatment.

Persistent peeling: While some peeling is normal, if the peeling persists for more than 2-3 weeks or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms like redness, swelling, or pain, it’s a good idea to check in with your tattoo artist or a medical professional.s where it’s necessary to seek professional help. Here are some instances where you should seek professional 

2. Allergic reactions: If you experience an allergic reaction to the tattoo ink, you may notice symptoms like severe itching, rash, or hives. In this case, it’s important to seek medical attention right away to prevent further complications.
3. Unusual scabbing or blistering: While scabbing is normal during the tattoo healing process, if you notice excessive or unusual scabbing or blistering, it may be a sign of an infection or other complication.

If you experience any of these symptoms or have concerns about the healing process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your tattoo artist or a medical professional. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and seek help if you’re unsure about the healing process.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tattoo peeling is a normal part of the tattoo healing process that typically occurs 3-6 days after getting a tattoo. During the peeling process, it’s important to avoid common mistakes like picking at the tattoo, using harsh skincare products, or exposing the tattoo to sunlight. We also recommend you get a tattoo on the less painful part of your body if it’s your first time. Additionally, if you notice signs of infection, persistent peeling, or unusual scabbing or blistering, it,s important to seek professional help to prevent further complications.

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