Tattoo peeling is a part of the natural healing process. It can cause discomfort and dullness of your ink, making you feel like your time, energy, and money were wasted.
But if you’re experiencing excessive skin peeling after a tattoo, it could be a problem. The reason might be a skin infection or something else. To avoid such dangerous things, we’re ready to provide you an extensive guidance on tattoo peeling from scratch.
Read on for everything you need to know on how to care for peeling tattoos.
Know About Tattoo Peeling
Tattoo peeling is an essential part of the healing process. During peeling, the top layer of your skin, known as the epidermis, discards dead skin cell exfoliation. This doesn’t affect the tattoo because the ink is injected into the dermis, the skin layer beneath the epidermis.
When Does a Tattoo Start Peeling?
Usually, tattoo peeling begins about one to two weeks after having your tattoo or when you remove bandages. It also depends on skin type, tattoo size, and aftercare. Here, your tattoo might look faded or dull. The reason is the dead skin cells are on top of it. Skin peeling may appear like dry skin flakes and sunburn. So, don’t get upset; it’s natural, and itching is common around the tattooed area. Try not to scratch it, as it can damage your tattoo or slow healing. But, once the peeling is finished, the tattoo will look fresh and shiny like before.
What is Normal and Bad Tattoo Peeling?
Now you know how long does a tattoo peel, it’s time to look for something new. In this section, we’ll assist you with the normal peeling or bad peeling. So that you know that your peeling is normal or something to worry about.
Let’s first understand what normal peeling looks like.
Normal peeling is a light flaking, a bit similar to sunburn. Over time, your skin peels softly; the flakes should be thin, and you might see color in them.
Now, it’s time to move forward with the bad peeling and how it looks!
You may have a skin infection or allergy if the peeling is extreme, there is swelling or redness, and you feel hot in touch. You should see a doctor if it’s paired with puss, pain, or an unpleasant smell. Peeling with thick scabs that seem to pull away from your tattoo can be a sign of trouble. If it looks bad or feels unusual, check with your tattoo artist or a doctor to be safe.
Tips & Instructions for Tattoo Aftercare
Newly inked tattoos are at high risk of infection because they’re at their vulnerable tattoo peeling stage. Proper tattoo aftercare is necessary to avoid any infection.
- Ask the tattoo artist to cover it properly with petroleum jelly and a clean bandage to avoid the risk of infection.
- Leave the bandage in place for at least 24 hours. Gently remove the bandage and wash the area with mild soap.
- Apply thick layers of antibacterial ointment or petroleum jelly twice daily. Do not re-bandage the area.
- Continue washing and applying ointment until the tattoo is healed.
- Avoid clothes that rub on the tattooed area unless it is unavoidable.
- Shower in cool water since hot water will irritate the skin.
- Stay under the sun: If so, use sunscreen containing at least 7% zinc oxide and keep the tattoo covered with clothing or a bandage.
- Try not to scratch, pick, or peel off the skin to prevent infection.
- Avoid swimming until the healing process is complete. This may take a few weeks.
- Use fragrance-free products in the healing process.
How Long Does Your Tattoo Take to Heal?
Generally, the outer layer of your skin takes about two to three weeks to heal. But this doesn’t mean that it heals fully. The deeper layers of the skin will take up to six months before they fully heal.
Even when your tattoo looks good, just keep following aftercare instructions to secure it during healing. Accidental stretching or damage to the tattoo may prolong the healing process. Proper care will result in vibrant and long-lasting results, so do not rush the process. Stay patient and diligent with aftercare to help your tattoo heal fully and maintain its best appearance over time.
To Conclude
Tattoos are an amazing addition to your life. They not only enhance your personality but also show your uniqueness. However, it comes with a bit of care and consideration during the healing process. Small skin issues like skin peeling, itching, and irritation can cause discomfort. Every problem comes with a solution; little aftercare will resolve your tattoo peeling problem simply.
Reckon Tattoo is proud to be one of the best tattoo shops in Phoenix, offering more than just exceptional artistry—we’re here to support you through each and every step of your tattoo journey, including aftercare. Our talented artists are experts in tailoring care routines to suit your skin type, helping you manage common healing challenges like peeling, itching, and irritation with ease.
We believe your tattoo should not only look amazing but also heal comfortably. Are you ready to bring your vision to life? Visit Reckon Tattoo or schedule your appointment to create something truly unforgettable!
FAQs
Can Peeling Damage a Tattoo?
No, tattoo peeling is a part of the healing process of a tattoo. But you’ve to take care of your tattoo during healing is necessary. Otherwise, it can damage your tattoo.
What Happens If I Peel My Tattoo and Damage It?
First of all, Don’t! But if you do purposefully peel your tattoo, bad things can happen. Things like uneven healing, more scarring risk, infection risk, and costly touch-ups.
Signs That Your Tattoo Is Not Healing?
If your tattoo is not healing correctly, you will experience skin rashes, itchiness, inflammation, skin discharge, and scars.
Can I Workout During the Healing and Peeling Stage?
As per our tattoo artist, wait for atleast 48 hours to continue physical activity at this tattoo peeling stage. It will cause more sweating, so try to avoid working out, dancing, heavy lifting, and cycling. But you can do the workout a bit for a while.
Will Tattoo Fade After Peeling?
No, don’t let this myth develop within. At the beginning of the healing process, your peeling tattoo might appear dull or fade. But once it is completely healed, it will look clear, clean, and shiny.
Author: Reckon Tattoo
Reckon Tattoo is a renowned tattoo studio led by the talented artist Ray Angulo. With over a decade of experience, Ray's expertise shines in Black and Grey Realism, Christian-themed, fine-line, and custom designs. His unique blend of traditional artistry and street art influences brings a fresh perspective to every piece, creating tattoos that are both personal and visually stunning. Whether you're seeking a bold, realistic tattoo or a delicate, minimalist design, Reckon Tattoo in Chandler, Arizona, is the perfect destination for your custom ink.
