The skin is the largest organ in the body and is responsible for protecting us from external influences. However, if you find that after tattooing, you have prolonged itching or other symptoms in the tattooed area, you need to find out the cause so that you can promptly go to the doctor and get treatment. In this article, Sutran Tattoo Studio will help you find out the details.
Is itchy skin normal?
Itching after getting a tattoo is a common and easy thing to experience. When the skin is damaged during the tattooing process, the body often reacts by creating an itchy sensation in the affected area. This can be part of the skin’s natural healing process.
Itching after tattooing is a common occurrence.
However, if the itching persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, swelling, or rash, you should see a doctor or specialist for advice and timely treatment. Sometimes, itching can be a sign of more serious problems such as allergies or infections, so it is extremely important to care for and take care of your skin after tattooing.
What causes itchy tattoos?
Tattoo itching can be caused by a variety of factors, including the skin’s natural response to healing and external factors that affect the tattooed area, creating discomfort that needs attention. More specifically:
The natural skin healing process
After getting a tattoo, your skin will begin to heal itself by forming scabs and new skin, which is often accompanied by itching and discomfort. To avoid causing damage and minimizing the risk of infection, you should limit scratching or scraping the tattooed area, as this action can lead to scarring and disfiguring the tattoo, which is not what anyone wants.
After completing the tattoo, you will be given an ointment to apply to the tattooed area and should avoid contact with water. The itching will usually subside within 1-2 weeks
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The natural skin healing process
Itchy tattoo due to infection
Infected tattoos are usually caused by bacteria or other microorganisms that enter the damaged skin area during the tattooing process. These microorganisms can cause an inflammatory reaction, causing symptoms such as redness, swelling, pain, and itching. This condition often occurs when the tattoo artist does not follow proper hygiene practices or when you do not properly care for the tattooed area after getting a tattoo.
Allergy
Allergic tattoo itching is often caused by an overreaction to ingredients in tattoo ink or other chemicals used in the tattooing process. These ingredients can irritate the skin, leading to an allergic reaction or inflammation. Mild allergic reactions may cause scaling, peeling, oozing, pimples, or blisters. These symptoms usually go away on their own after a short time. If symptoms are more severe, you should consult a doctor or dermatologist for timely treatment.
Allergy
Sun allergy
Sun-induced tattoo itching is often related to the body’s reaction to the ingredients in the tattoo ink. When exposed to sunlight, some ingredients in tattoo ink can cause reactions such as small bumps, itching, hives, redness, swelling, or blistering. To avoid sun-induced itching, use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and cover the tattooed area with clothing with a high UPF when outdoors.
Eczema
Another cause of itchy tattoos is eczema, a chronic skin condition that often causes itchy, red, and cracked skin. When bacteria or fungus grows on the tattooed area, it can cause an inflammatory reaction, leading to itching and discomfort. Before getting a tattoo, you should discuss with your tattoo artist about using the right ink for sensitive skin to minimize the risk of irritation.
Eczema
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic, non-contagious condition that can cause itching in tattooed areas. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, even minor injuries like needle pricks can trigger psoriasis in some people. This suggests that some people’s skin can react strongly to any stimulus, including tattoos, resulting in symptoms such as itching, redness, and scaling in the tattooed area.
What to do when feeling itchy in the tattoo area?
- Identifying the cause of the itch is an important first step in finding the right method to protect your health and maintain the beauty of your tattoo. Preventing the itching sensation early will not only help you feel more comfortable, but also protect your tattoo and support the skin’s recovery process.
- Here are some measures that can help reduce itching while your skin is recovering from a tattoo:
- Use lotions or ointments
- Avoid scratching and picking at the tattooed area
- Do not peel off the flaking skin
- Ensure the tattooed area is clean
- Pay attention to a reasonable diet
- Limit exposure to sunlight and water
- Follow the instructions of your tattoo artist
Itchy after tattoo and how to deal with it
Above are the causes and measures to help you deal with the situation of itching after tattooing. Correctly identifying the cause and applying appropriate care methods will not only help you feel more comfortable but also protect and maintain the beauty of the tattoo effectively.
