Have you ever wondered why does ink come out of a new tattoo? It is a common occurrence that can be both alarming and confusing to those who have recently gotten a tattoo. In this article, we will explore the reasons why ink can come out of a new tattoo, as well as what steps you can take to ensure that your tattoo remains intact and vibrant.
Contents
Reasons Why Ink Comes Out of a New Tattoo
Ink Color
Certain colors are more prone to fading than others. Black ink is the most common and has the best staying power, but even it can fade over time. Colors such as red and yellow may not hold up as well as black, and may require more frequent touch-ups.
Tattoo Placement
The area of the body where the tattoo is placed can also affect how long the ink stays in place. Areas with less skin elasticity, such as the hands and feet, are more likely to cause the ink to fade over time. Areas that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the arms and legs, are also more prone to fading.
Aftercare
Proper aftercare is essential for ensuring that a tattoo stays put. Immediately after getting a new tattoo, it is important to keep the area clean and to use a moisturizer to keep the area from drying out. Avoid swimming or soaking in hot tubs for at least two weeks, and keep the area away from harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
Tattoo Artist
The skill of the tattoo artist can also have an effect on how long the ink lasts. An inexperienced artist may not be able to properly apply the ink, resulting in a tattoo that does not last as long as it should.
Ink Quality
The quality of the ink used can also affect how long it lasts. Cheaper inks may not be as vibrant as more expensive inks, and may not hold up as well over time.
Skin Sensitivity
Some people are more sensitive to the ink used in tattoos than others. Those with a higher sensitivity may find that their tattoos fade more quickly than those with lower sensitivity.
Skin Type
The type of skin can also affect how long a tattoo lasts. Oily skin tends to retain ink better than dry skin, while thin skin may not be able to hold on to the ink as well.
Age
The age of the person getting the tattoo can also have an effect on how long the ink lasts. Older skin is less elastic and may not be able to hold the ink as well.
Immune System
A person’s immune system can also play a role in how long the ink lasts. Those with weaker immune systems may find that their tattoos fade more quickly than those with stronger systems.
Environmental Factors
Environmental factors, such as sun exposure or pollution, can also cause a tattoo to fade more quickly than normal. Wearing sunscreen and avoiding polluted areas can help keep your tattoo from fading prematurely.
If you want to ensure that your tattoo lasts as long as possible, it’s important to consider all of the factors that can affect the lifespan of your ink. Paying attention to ink color, tattoo placement, aftercare, tattoo artist, ink quality, skin sensitivity, skin type, age, immune system, and environmental factors can all help to ensure that your tattoo will stay vibrant for years to come.
When Does Ink Stop Coming Out of a Tattoo?
Tattoo ink will continue to heal and settle into the skin for up to 1 to 2 years:
- For the first few weeks after getting a tattoo, the ink will continue to settle into the skin, and the tattoo will continue to heal.
- The healing process can take anywhere from 1 to 2 years depending on the size, location, and composition of the tattoo.
- During this time, the tattoo may still be sensitive and the colors may not be as vivid as they will be once the tattoo is fully healed.
- It is important to keep the area clean and moisturized during this time to prevent infection and ensure the best healing possible.
Once the tattoo is healed, the ink will not continue to come out:
- Once the healing process is complete, the ink will no longer be able to come out of the skin.
- This is because the ink molecules have been broken down and absorbed into the skin.
- It is important to note that the ink may still fade over time, depending on how well the tattoo is cared for.
- It is also important to note that some inks may fade faster than others, and it is best to speak with your tattoo artist about which inks are best for your specific tattoo.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do to ensure my Tattoo Heals Properly?
Keep it Clean: Clean the tattooed area twice a day with lukewarm water and mild, unscented soap to prevent infection.
Keep it Covered: Cover the tattoo with a bandage for the first 24-48 hours and use an antibiotic ointment for a few days to keep it moist.
Keep it Moist: Apply a thin layer of a moisturizing lotion such as petroleum jelly or Aquaphor to keep the tattoo from drying out.
Keep it Out of the Sun: Protect the tattoo from the sun with clothing or sunscreen to prevent fading.
How Long Should I Expect it to Take for My Tattoo to Heal?
- Give it Time: Generally, it takes about two to four weeks for a tattoo to completely heal. Larger tattoos may take a bit longer.
- Follow Aftercare Instructions: To ensure that your tattoo heals properly, it’s important to follow the aftercare instructions given by your artist. This includes regularly cleaning the area with warm water and a mild soap, applying a protective ointment, and avoiding contact with clothing and jewelry.
- Be Patient: While two to four weeks is the general timeline, healing times can vary depending on factors such as size, placement, and how well you follow aftercare instructions. Some people may experience healing quicker, while others may take a bit longer.
Is it Normal for the Tattoo to be Sensitive to the Touch?
Yes. It is normal for a new tattoo to be sensitive to the touch. This is due to the irritation caused by the tattooing process and the healing process of the skin. Some of the common reactions to a new tattoo include:
- Itching
- Redness
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Discoloration
These reactions are normal and will usually subside after a few days. If the tattoo is still painful or swollen after a few days, it is important to seek medical attention.
What can I do to minimize the risk of infection?
Clean the tattooed area regularly: Wash the tattooed area at least twice a day with warm water and antibacterial soap. Make sure to rinse it thoroughly. Pat dry the area and apply a thin layer of ointment.
Avoid touching the tattoo: Avoid touching the tattoo as it can spread bacteria or irritate the area.
Check for signs of infection: Watch for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, increased pain, or discharge from the tattooed area. If any of these signs occur, seek medical attention.
See your doctor: Visit your doctor for routine check-ups to ensure that the tattoo is healing properly.
What are the Potential Side Effects of Getting a Tattoo?
Getting a tattoo is a popular body art form, but it should be done safely with professional artists that use the proper equipment and techniques. However, there are some potential side effects and risks associated with getting a tattoo.
Common Side Effects:
- Skin irritation, redness, and swelling at the site of the tattoo
- Itching and scabbing around the tattoo
- Mild bleeding and oozing of plasma or ink
- Infection, including staph and other bacterial infections
- Allergic reactions to the ink, dyes, and/or chemicals
- Keloid scarring, especially in people with darker skin tones
- Skin discoloration or loss of pigmentation
Less Common Side Effects:
- Blood-borne diseases, including HIV and hepatitis B and C
- Granulomas, which are raised, red lesions that form around the tattoo
- MRI complications due to the presence of tattoo ink in the body
- Tattoo blowout, which is when the ink spreads out and causes the tattoo to blur or look distorted
It is important to do your research, choose a reputable artist and shop, and follow proper aftercare instructions to reduce the risk of any side effects.
Conclusion
New tattoos often ooze ink, which is a normal part of the healing process. This is caused by the ink being forced into the dermis and the body’s natural healing response, which can include inflammation, swelling, and excess fluid. Proper aftercare, such as cleaning and moisturizing the tattoo, can help to reduce ink oozing and speed up the healing process.
