The Healing Tattoo: [Why] Ink Loss Is Part of the Process!

In the intricate journey of body art, the concern of a tattoo losing ink while healing is both common and perplexing, particularly for those adorned with fresh, solid, and bright colour pieces.

This article delves into the healing process, a critical phase where issues may occur, leading to a lacklustre or patchy appearance of your piece.

I aim to shed light on the reasons this might happen, especially for those wondering what happened to their new ink.

Understanding the intricacies of ink coming off tattoo can provide reassurance and guidance for those navigating this phase.

Also Read: Do Blue Ink Tattoos Hold Up Well Over Time

Is It Normal For Tattoo Losing Ink While Healing?

Many first-timers find themselves wondering, “is it normal for tattoo ink to come off during the healing process.

The short answer is, yes, it can be quite normal for a little ink to peel off as your tattoo heals. This usually happens when the tattoo is in the vital phase of healing.

As your skin heals, the epidermal (or outer layers) of the skin start to regenerate, and any ink that hasn’t been driven deep into the dermis layer of the skin by the needles penetrating for a permanent mark may come off.

This is part of the body’s natural healing process, where the new skin that forms over the tattoo sheds off the dyed outer layer.

However, how much ink comes off can depend on several main factors, including the artist’s skill in applying the ink properly and cleaning the area before tattooing.

Proper care of the tattoo while it heals is also crucial to minimize the amount of ink that comes off. Scabbing will occur, but it can be minimized by following care instructions from experienced tattoo artists.

For bigger tattoos, more ink is used, and as the skin peels off or scabs, it’s more likely that some of the ink will come off too.

It’s important to understand that while some tattoo ink fallout is normal, large parts of ink coming off usually means the tattoo wasn’t done correctly, often a sign of inexperienced tattooists.

Your artist should be prepared to explain specifically about tattoo ink and how it’s likely to come off during the healing.

Knowing what to expect can help you ensure that your tattoo heals properly and maintains the look you want.

The end result shouldn’t be damage but a beautifully healed piece that reflects the care and attention both you and your artist have invested.

Also Read: How Long To Leave Tegaderm On Tattoos

is it normal for tattoo ink to come off

Why Is The Ink On My Tattoo Coming Off?

Here are a few reasons why my tattoo peeling and tattoo ink coming off with ointment:

1. Bad Technique

A bad technique can result in a tattoo that looks patchy and blotchy. If the artist doesn’t pack the ink deep enough, or with enough lot to create a solid area of colour, the tattoo might end up looking less vibrant than intended.

This is particularly true for areas where concentrated black or deep color is needed. If the ink isn’t packed in a lot, the result can be a tattoo that doesn’t stay put as it should.

2. Body Rejects The Ink

Sometimes, the body rejects the ink, a result of the body not liking a certain type of ink or the artist not using high-quality inks.

Not all inks are made equal, with their formulations constantly changing and improving.

If the body starts rejecting the ink, similar to how some piercings get rejected, the tattoo may fade or lose ink over time.

3. Skin Injury

Skin injury and patchiness can also be a result of friction on the tattoo.

Hand and palm tattoos are especially prone to becoming patchy because these areas receive a lot of movement and friction compared to other parts of the body.

This constant activity can erase parts of the tattoo as the skin is regenerating more often.

Additionally, hands are more likely to look faded and patchy due to sun exposure that is year-round, causing the ink to fade quicker.

4. Itching And Scratching

When your tattoo starts to itch and sting, it’s a normal part of the healing process, especially for those with sensitive skin.

The skin that surrounds your tattoo might itch more as it’s a bigger job for your body to heal.

While it’s important not to scratch the area, as digging into the skin with your nails can cause the tattoo to not heal properly and ink to come off, there are safer ways to alleviate discomfort.

I recommend rubbing a clean ice pack over the area or gently holding it against the skin to soothe the irritation.

Also Read: Radiant Results: How Long After A Tattoo Can You Tan Without Risk

5. Poor Aftercare

Poor Aftercare can significantly contribute to patchiness.

Not following proper aftercare precautions, like picking at scabs on your new tattoo, swimming, submerging in a bath, or exposing it to UV rays in the early stages of healing, can lead to ink loss and patchiness.

It’s crucial to adhere to the aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist to ensure your tattoo heals correctly and retains its vibrancy.

6. Cleaning And Wrapping

Right after your tattoo is finished, your tattoo artist will need to clean the area and wrap the work.

Typically, they’ll use plastic wrap to protect the area from bacteria and help start the healing process properly.

If this step is skipped or not done correctly, or if the wrap is taken off too soon, it can hurt the healing process, and ink may come off as a result.

Always follow the cleaning guidelines and know how long to leave the wrap on to avoid complications.

7. Peeling Skin

When you notice your tattoo area peeling, it’s often slightly alarming, but this is actually a normal part of the healing process.

As the skin heals, you might see peeling skin, but it’s crucial not to peel the skin off manually.

Let it fall off naturally to ensure the area stays clean and can heal properly.

This natural shedding is your body’s way of getting rid of the damaged top layer and making way for new, healthy skin.

8. Infection

A new tattoo is essentially an open wound, so you need to be careful about what it’s exposed to.

If bacteria gets into the tattoo before it heals, it can cause an infection, and one of the signs is the ink peeling off new tattoo prematurely.

The severity of the infection can vary, but it’s essential to keep the area clean and monitor for any signs of trouble.

Proper aftercare is crucial to prevent infection and ensure your tattoo retains its beauty.

Can Tattoos Look Patchy While Healing?

It’s not uncommon for tattoos to look patchy during the healing process.

If you’ve just got a brand new piece and are in the healing stage, you might become concerned upon seeing it looking patchy.

Fear not; it’s a normal part of the healing process. During this time, your tattoo might look weird — it could appear cloudy, faded, patchy, or even blurred.

This can be quite concerning, especially after you’ve dropped a few hundred on your new art.

But at this stage, don’t worry. It’s best to let your tattoo completely heal and settle into the skin, which can take up to a month.

Once settled, if it still looks patchy, it’s time to go back to your artist to get it touched up. Most artists offer touch-ups for free unless it’s a huge rework.

Remember, healing is a unique process for everyone, and sometimes, tattoos need a little extra care to look their best.

So, take a deep breath and give it time; your skin art is on its journey to looking fantastic.

Also Read: Can I Put Fake Tan On A Week Old Tattoo Safely

Why Does My Healed Tattoo Look Patchy?

When your healed tattoo starts to look patchy, it can be disheartening, especially if it’s an older piece you’ve cherished.

This kind of patchy appearance can be the result of many things. Sometimes it’s due to bad technique or cheap inks used during the tattooing process.

Other times, it might be the placement of the tattoo or an injury to the area that didn’t heal properly.

In any case, there are things you can try to improve the look of your tattoo. Products like vibrancy serum, daily moisturiser, and highlighting body oil can work wonders.

They can make your tattoos look bolder and more defined by keeping the skin hydrated.

Remember, dry skin can often look patchy, and if you’re seeing areas of missing ink, these products can sometimes help bring back the piece to look better overall.

Common Mistakes That Lead To Ink Coming Off Tattoo

Common mistakes that lead to ink loss often stem from the intricacies involved in the tattooing process, which not every artist masters.

A good tattoo artist with years of training understands the subtleties of how deeply the needle needs to be embed in the skin.

If the needle isn’t deeply enough, it can lead to significant problems with ink being lost during the healing process.

Conversely, if the ink has gone too deep, it can bleed or seep into the surrounding area, leading to a blurred effect.

Sometimes, it’s evident when the artist has gone too deep if the tattoo feels raised or develops into a big scar, both of which can become sources of tattoo ink fallout.

Another issue arises if the artist didn’t use enough ink. I’ve watched a master tattoo artist at work, carefully using as much ink as necessary and for a good reason.

A good artist knows how to balance the ink to ensure as much as possible stays in the skin.

They also understand that the skin will naturally reject a certain amount of ink, which is why they might overcompensate initially.

These nuances in technique and experience make a huge difference in the longevity and vibrancy of a tattoo.

Also Read: Don’t Ruin Your Ink! Learn What Lotion Not To Use On A New Tattoo

Should You Be Concerned About Ink Coming Off New Tattoo?

Should you be concerned about your tattoo losing ink while healing? In many cases, a little bit of ink loss is no big deal.

It’s fairly common for tattoos to shed some ink during the healing process, and often, you can simply go back to your artist and request a touch-up.

In most cases, this is done without an additional charge, especially if it was paid for in the original work.

It’s perfectly normal for tattoos to require multiple touch-up sessions, especially if it’s a large piece.

So, if you consider your artist did a good job initially, a bit of losing ink shouldn’t be a cause for alarm.

However, if you’re losing a lot of ink, it could be a sign that the artist did something wrong, or you failed to care for your new tat properly.

Substandard work should never be tolerated, and if you find yourself keep going back to the same artist for a botched job, it might be time to consider other options.

Besides the quality of the tattoo, another concern is the possibility of infection, which can cause a lot of ink loss and potentially ruin your tattoo entirely.

Remember, you’re essentially sporting a bunch of tiny skin punctures that can harbor infection.

If the tatted area is red, swollen, overly sensitive, or oozing pus, and is refusing to heal, it’s likely an infection. In this case, see a doctor immediately.

While some ink loss is expected, excessive fading or signs of infection are serious concerns that require professional attention.

Taking care of your tattoo from the beginning, choosing a reputable artist, and following proper aftercare instructions can significantly reduce the risk of these issues.

Also Read: Is Dermasil Good For Tattoos

How To Care For A New Tattoo?

Caring for your new tattoo is crucial to minimize ink loss and the risk of infection.

Proper tattoo aftercare is key, and the instructions your artist provides should be followed completely.

It’s not the time to skimp or skirt the boundaries of what’s okay; aftercare is as important as the quality of work itself.

Understand that this is a serious matter; in a study, it was surveyed that different aftercare methods and instructions from artists can vary widely.

A noteworthy fact is that about 12% of artists present their clients with no written aftercare instructions, only verbal instructions, which can be hard to remember.

Always ask for your aftercare instructions in writing.

Common methods include using antibacterial soap and an unscented, moisturizing lotion/ointment, to be applied 2-3 times a day.

Be cautious if the lotion or ointment is petroleum-based, like Vaseline, as some artists don’t recommend it.

Some might even suggest dry healing with no moisturizer, but this can increase the likelihood of ink loss.

Ensure to remove the initial bandage after the recommended time has elapsed.

This dressing is like wound care, and while some artists recommend open-air healing, others may suggest you cover your tattoo with bandages or clothing.

When you wear clothing over your fresh tat, make sure it’s nice and loose. If your artist deviates from these methods, remember, there’s more than one way to skin a cat.

Your tattoo’s future vibrancy and clarity depend heavily on how well you follow aftercare instructions.

Each artist might have their unique twist on the process, reflecting their experience and what they’ve found to be most effective.

It’s your responsibility to take their advice seriously and follow it diligently to ensure your new piece of art heals beautifully and remains vibrant for years to come.

Also Read: How Soon After Laparoscopic Surgery Can I Get A Tattoo

Some Ointments Will Cause Ink Loss

When it comes to ointments that cause ink loss, it’s crucial to know what you’re applying to your freshly inked skin.

If your tattoo has undergone significant fading, it’s time to think about the products you’ve used.

Not all moisturizers/ointments on the market are safe for new tattoos; some can pull ink from your new tat, especially those that contain rubbing alcohol or similar harsh ingredients.

These should be avoided as they can have similar effects, causing premature fading and ink loss.

Always consult with your tattoo artist for recommended aftercare products to ensure your tattoo heals vibrantly and retains its intended beauty.

Also Read: Can I Use Aspercreme With Lidocaine Before A Tattoo?

why is the ink on my tattoo coming off

How Long Does A Tattoo Take To Heal?

How long does a tattoo take to heal? This is one of the most common questions tattoo artists are asked once the job is done.

The factors that affect the length of the healing time can depend on several aspects: the size and intricacy of the design, the quality of the work, where the tattoo is on the body, and the person’s health and immune status.

Generally, a tattoo is looked after well during the healing process, which for most tattoos, can range from 7 to 15 days.

To ensure the healing process goes as quickly and smoothly as possible, always follow the tips given above and don’t hesitate to ask your tattooer if something seems wrong.

Remember, each person and tattoo is unique, so healing times can vary.

Also Read: Tegaderm Vs Saniderm

FAQs About Why Does Ink Come Off A New Tattoo While Healing

1. Why Tattoo Ink Coming Off Tattoo Next Day?

When your tattoo ink starts coming off your tattoo the next day, it’s often because as the skin heals, it forms a scab over the tattooed area, and some ink may come off with the scab. It’s important to follow proper aftercare instructions from your tattoo artist to ensure the best healing and preservation of your tattoo.

2. Is Ink Supposed To Come Off Tattoo In The Shower?

Experiencing horror as you see ink coming off in the shower? It’s normal, and not necessarily a sign of a tattoo not healing properly. The quick answer is it’s perfectly normal for some ink to come away as the tattoo heals.

3. Why Tattoo Ink Coming Off With Ointment?

If you notice your tattoo ink coming off with ointment like Aquaphor after 3 to 4 days, seeing small specks of color come off when you rub the healing skin is common. This isn’t an indicator to stop using Aquaphor but often just a part of the process. However, if concerned, consult your tattoo artist.

4. Does Tattoo Ink Come Out Of Clothes?

Tattoo ink can indeed stain anything it gets onto while getting tattooed, including bleeding onto your clothes. Both Ink and blood can stain clothing fabrics, but these stains can often be removed from clothing by washing the clothes in hot water with bleach designed for fabric use.

5. Can Your Body Reject A Tattoo?

Body can reject a tattoo if some people’s skin naturally rejects the ink as it heals. Activities like swimming or taking showers RIGHT after getting a tattoo, even within a day or two, can cause ink to come out. Sunlight can naturally fade and remove ink if the skin does not like the ink the artist is using.

6. How To Pull Ink From A New Tattoo?

To pull ink from a new tattoo, use a gentle, non-abrasive product. Apply rubbing alcohol to the tattoo to break down and remove the ink, or apply hydrogen peroxide (Hydrog) for a similar effect. However, these methods should be used cautiously and under professional advice.

7. Do Tattoos Leak Ink When Healing?

It’s common for tattoos to leak ink when healing. Monitor any leaking ink or fluids as it’s normal to experience ink and fluid leakage in the tattooed area for a few days. If it continues for an extended period, it might indicate interference with the healing process.

8. Why Is The Ink Not Staying In My Tattoo?

Sometimes ink not staying in a tattoo results in a patchy tattoo, often a result of bad technique. The artist must make sure the ink is deep enough to stay put while packing it in, especially with certain ink colours in areas needing concentrated black. These areas need to be packed a lot to create a solid area of colour.

9. How Do You Know If Your Tattoo Is Rejecting Ink?

If your tattoo is rejecting ink, you might notice a rash, bumps, or a flaking, scaly appearance. Purple or red nodules around the tattoo are telltale signs of rejection.

10. What Helps Tattoo Ink Stay In Skin?

To help tattoo ink stay in skin, pick a quality tattoo artist, start aftercare from day 1, get a black and grey tattoo if you’re concerned about color retention, think about placement, protect tattoos from the sun, maintain good skin health, and use tattoo vibrancy serum.

11. What Does Ink Rejection Look Like?

Ink rejection typically looks like a lichenoid reaction, which happens when small, discolored bumps appear where ink was injected, most common with red inks. These bumps can be irritating and itchy and might appear beyond the area where ink was injected.

12. Why Is My Tattoo Fading After 3 Months?

Your tattoo fading after 3 months is a natural part of the tattoo fade process. All tattoos begin to wear and age from the moment they are put in the skin. During the healing process, your immune system attempts to start breaking down the pigment particles. While it’s not often terribly successful at this early stage, some fading can occur.

13. Why Does My Tattoo Look Smudged?

Tattoos might look messy or blurry during healing due to ink leakage and blurry lines as the skin is repairing itself. Once the skin is healed, the lines of the tattoo can appear imprecise or smudged looking, a phenomenon known as tattoo blowout.

14. Why Does My New Tattoo Look Faded And Milky?

A new tattoo can look faded and milky due to the appearance of skin that’s still healing. When a tattoo is still fresh, a milky appearance can be caused by excess ink and blood that’s still present on the surface of the skin.

15. How Do You Fix A Bad Tattoo?

There are several ways to fix a bad tattoo. You might wait for it to heal and then add background or shading to cover up the original tattoo, or consider laser tattoo removal if the issue is more severe.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “tattoo losing ink while healing” is a multifaceted issue influenced by various factors such as the healing process, the body’s natural reaction to ink, and the aftercare methods employed.

From the initial stages where the skin might appear milky or the tattoo looks faded due to immune response, to concerns about ink leakage, smudging, or even rejection, understanding these aspects is crucial for proper tattoo care.

The role of ointments, the artist’s technique, and personal health all interplay in how well a tattoo heals. While some ink loss and changes are perfectly normal, excessive fading or signs of infection require attention.

Remember, each tattoo’s journey is unique, and with the right care, knowledge, and touch-ups when necessary, your ink can remain a vibrant piece of art for years to come.

 

Leave a Comment