Is A New Tattoo Supposed To Peel? Absolutely! At tattooat.com, we understand that seeing your new tattoo peel can be a little concerning, but it’s actually a normal and healthy part of the healing process. By following proper aftercare, you can ensure your tattoo heals beautifully. Let’s dive into the peeling phase, side effects and proper maintenance of your body art.
1. Why Does My Tattoo Peel?
Tattoos peel because the tattooing process involves injecting ink into the dermis, the layer of skin beneath the epidermis. According to dermatologist Dr. Bradley Glodny, the needle injures the epidermis or the outermost layer of the skin and becomes inflamed, red, and swollen. In essence, this damaged outer layer of skin is shed as the tattoo heals.
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The skin loses moisture and becomes dehydrated, resulting in dry texture, which we see as peeling skin. The peeling helps the tattoo heal and allows the ink to set properly. The peeling tattoo is a sign of proper healing, but it’s essential to manage it correctly.
2. When Will My New Tattoo Start Peeling?
Generally, a new tattoo will begin to peel about one to two weeks after the initial session. The exact timing can vary depending on your skin type, how well you follow aftercare instructions, and the tattoo artist’s technique.
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Dr. Glodny says the timeline may vary depending on how you are caring for your tattoo. If the peeling happens earlier, talk to your tattoo artist. Bits of pigment could be pulled from the tattoo and ruin the overall look. Also, seeing peeling happen later is not a bad sign.
3. What If My Tattoo Isn’t Peeling?
It’s also completely normal for a tattoo not to peel. Everyone’s skin heals uniquely. Whether your tattoo peels or not doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem. Dry and normal skin types tend to peel more, while oilier skin may peel less. The actual process of getting the tattoo may also contribute to whether or not your skin peels.
Factors Affecting Peeling
- Skin Type: Drier skin types tend to peel more noticeably than oily skin.
- Moisturizing: If you moisturize diligently, you might experience less peeling.
- Tattoo Technique: An artist who uses a shallower needle depth may result in less peeling.
- Tattoo Type: Cosmetic tattoos like microblading might not cause as much peeling as traditional tattoos.
4. What Are the Other Common Tattoo Side Effects?
Besides peeling, other common side effects indicate your tattoo is healing correctly. For a day or so after getting it done, expect to see some redness around the placement site, as well as some slight itchiness and minor inflammation caused by the skin trauma of the tattooing needles. However, if either of these symptoms extends past the placement site of the tattoo, it might be a sign of improper healing.
Uncommon Side Effects
- Scarring: Excessive scarring (keloiding) can occur.
- Infection: Possible if improper tools are used.
- Allergic Reactions: Evident by rash or patches of redness.
According to Nazarian, infection is not common, but still possible. If the area is tender, painful, or increasingly red, or if any bumps or nodules form on the area, it’s important to contact your physician right away. Contact a medical professional immediately to minimize damage to your tattoo and health if you notice any of these uncommon side effects.
5. How Do I Take Care of a Peeling Tattoo?
Proper aftercare is crucial to ensure your tattoo heals well and looks its best. Here’s a comprehensive guide:
Immediate Aftercare
- Keep it Covered: Leave the bandage or wrap on for the time recommended by your artist (usually a few hours to a day).
- Gently Wash: Remove the bandage and wash the tattoo gently with unscented antibacterial soap and warm water. Pat dry with a clean paper towel.
Daily Care
- Cleanse Regularly: Wash the tattoo roughly twice daily with unscented antibacterial soap and warm water to keep it clean from buildup or bacteria.
- Moisturize: After each wash, apply a thin layer of a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer. Avoid products containing alcohol, as they can dry out the skin.
- Avoid Sun Exposure: Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight. UV rays can fade the ink and damage the skin. Once healed, always wear sunscreen on your tattoo.
- Wear Loose Clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid irritating the tattoo.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated, which can aid in the healing process.
- Don’t Pick or Scratch: As tempting as it may be, avoid picking, scratching, or rubbing the peeling skin. Allow it to come off naturally.
Additional Tips
- “Second Skin” Application: Newer recommendations include applying a “second skin” layer to your tattoo, which is kept on the tattoo for up to a week. With this care method, nothing can or should be applied to the tattoo until the “second skin” is removed or falls off. Once this happens, apply Aquaphor twice a day for a couple of weeks until the tattoo no longer feels dry.
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Nazarian adds that peeling should resolve after about one week, but any worsening of peeling, scaling, or flaking should warrant evaluation.
6. How Can I Minimize Tattoo Peeling?
While you can’t entirely prevent peeling, you can minimize it by:
- Keeping the Tattoo Moisturized: Regular moisturizing prevents the skin from drying out excessively.
- Avoiding Over-Washing: Washing too frequently can strip the skin of its natural oils.
- Protecting From the Sun: Sun exposure can cause the skin to dry out and peel more.
7. What Should I Avoid During the Peeling Phase?
- Avoid Swimming and Soaking: Refrain from swimming, hot tubs, and long baths. Soaking the tattoo can interfere with the healing process.
- Avoid Tight Clothing: Tight clothing can rub against the tattoo and cause irritation.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Stay away from harsh soaps, perfumes, and lotions that can irritate the skin.
- Avoid Excessive Sweating: Excessive sweating can create a breeding ground for bacteria. If you exercise, wash the tattoo immediately afterward.
8. What Does a Properly Healed Tattoo Look Like?
A properly healed tattoo will have vibrant colors and smooth, intact skin. There should be no signs of redness, swelling, or irritation. The skin should feel like your normal skin, with no raised areas or scabs.
9. What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid?
- Picking at the Peeling Skin: This can lead to scarring and ink loss.
- Using Scented Products: These can irritate the skin and cause allergic reactions.
- Applying Too Much Ointment: This can trap moisture and lead to infection.
- Neglecting Sun Protection: Sun exposure can fade the tattoo and damage the skin.
- Ignoring Signs of Infection: Redness, swelling, pain, and pus are signs of infection. See a doctor immediately.
10. The Final Takeaway
It’s completely normal for a new tattoo to peel. While it may be tempting to pick at the dead skin, it’s important to let your body go through the process naturally. Remember to keep your tattoo out of the sun until it’s fully healed (and always wear sunscreen after), avoid any activity that would wet your ink, like swimming, bathing, or sweating, and wear loose-fitted clothing to prevent irritation. If you follow these aftercare tips and give your tattoo time to heal, it will turn out just fine.
At tattooat.com, we are committed to providing you with the best information and resources for your tattooing journey. We can help you find the perfect design, connect with talented artists, and learn everything you need to know about tattoo aftercare.
FAQ
1. Do You Wash Your Tattoo When It’s Peeling?
Yes, you should continue to wash your tattoo gently even when it’s peeling. According to Nazarian, you can gently cleanse the skin while it’s in the peeling phase, but use a non-foaming, unscented cleanser. Perfumes and colognes can be super irritating to freshly tattooed skin or a peeling tattoo, so avoid anything with fragrance. After washing, gently pat dry and do not rub the area.
2. Can You Rub a Peeling Tattoo?
No, you should not rub, scratch, or peel the tattoo, no matter how tempting it may seem. Otsuji advises clients not to pick and to allow the scab or dry skin to come off on its own. Picking at your tattoo during the peeling stage can result in it appearing patchy, distorted, and dull once healed.
3. Do Tattoos Fade After They Peel?
Slight fading of the initial dark pigment is normal after the peeling phase resolves. Environmental exposure, such as sunlight, or irritating ingredients like retinoids, can shorten the life span of your tattoo and make it fade faster, and can cause unnecessary peeling that wears on the pigment and damages the artwork. Wear sunscreen whenever you can to protect your skin.
4. What Kind of Lotion Should I Use on My Peeling Tattoo?
Use a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic lotion specifically designed for sensitive skin. Look for ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, or vitamin E.
5. How Often Should I Moisturize My Peeling Tattoo?
Moisturize your tattoo after each wash and a few times throughout the day, or whenever it feels dry. Be careful not to over-moisturize, as this can trap moisture and lead to infection.
6. Can I Use Vaseline on My Peeling Tattoo?
While some people recommend Vaseline, it’s generally better to use a lighter, breathable lotion. Vaseline can create a barrier that traps moisture and prevents the skin from breathing.
7. What If My Tattoo Starts to Itch During Peeling?
Itching is normal during the peeling phase. Resist the urge to scratch. Instead, gently pat the area or apply a cold compress to relieve the itch.
8. How Long Does the Peeling Phase Last?
The peeling phase typically lasts about one to two weeks. If the peeling persists or worsens, consult your tattoo artist or a dermatologist.
9. Can I Exercise While My Tattoo Is Peeling?
Avoid excessive sweating during the peeling phase. If you do exercise, wash the tattoo immediately afterward and apply a thin layer of moisturizer.
10. What Should I Do If I See Signs of Infection?
If you notice redness, swelling, pain, pus, or fever, see a doctor immediately. These are signs of infection and require medical treatment.
Ready to take the next step in your tattoo journey? Visit tattooat.com today to discover endless design inspiration, find talented artists in your area, and learn everything you need to know about tattoo aftercare!
Address: 1825 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97201, United States
Phone: +1 (503) 725-3000
Website: tattooat.com
