You just got a tattoo, and after a few days, you notice that your skin is starting to peel? Don't panic, it's completely normal! But, to ensure your tattoo heals well and keeps its shine, there are a few things you need to know. In this article, we'll explain why your tattoo is peeling, what you should (and especially shouldn't) do, and how to take care of it during this phase.
@Midjourney
Why is my tattoo peeling?
Peeling is simply your skin's way of regenerating itself. When you get a tattoo, the needle goes through the superficial layers of your skin to deposit the ink. Inevitably, this creates small wounds. Once the tattoo is finished, your body gets to work healing it all. The skin on the tattoo will therefore renew itself, which causes the dead cells to fall off... and therefore, the famous peeling! In general, it starts around the 4th day after the tattoo and can last up to a week.
Don't worry, this is not a sign of a problem, nor proof that your tattoo is poorly done. It's just a normal step, like a small cut or scrape that heals.
How to properly care for a peeling tattoo?
Now that you know why your tattoo is peeling, here are some tips to help it heal as well as possible. You'll see, with a little care, everything will go well.
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Don't scratch : Yes, it can itch sometimes, and the little bits of skin can be tempting to remove. But resist! If you scratch or pull off the dead skin, you risk damaging the ink and even leaving scars. So, let your body do its thing.
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Moisturize well, but not too much : Apply a specific tattoo cream or a light moisturizer. But be careful not to put too much product either! A thin layer is enough to help your skin stay supple and prevent it from cracking.
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Avoid long soaks : While your tattoo is healing, it is best to avoid baths, swimming pools or even the sea. Water can soften the scabs and slow down healing. Quick, lukewarm showers are ideal for cleaning the area.
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Favor loose clothing : If your tattoo is in an area where clothing rubs (like your back or arms), try to wear loose clothing to avoid irritating the skin and to allow for good ventilation.
How long will the coat last?
The peeling phase usually lasts between 3 and 7 days. But be careful, even if your skin seems to have finished peeling, the healing process continues deep down. It will still take a few weeks for your skin to fully recover. Continue to take care of your tattoo throughout this time, including moisturizing it well and avoiding direct exposure to the sun.
What if I find that my tattoo is not peeling normally?
If you notice persistent redness, unusual pain, swelling or oozing, there may be a problem, such as an infection. In this case, it is best to consult a healthcare professional to make sure everything is okay. Also, if you notice that certain areas of the tattoo seem to be losing color with dead skin, this is not uncommon and may require a small touch-up. In this case, do not hesitate to contact your tattoo artist to discuss it.
In summary
The peeling of your tattoo is a completely normal step in the healing process. The important thing is to take good care of it: moisturize, don't scratch, and be patient! With these few simple steps, your tattoo will heal well, and you will be able to fully enjoy it.
So, even if your tattoo starts to peel, stay cool! Take care of it, and in a few weeks, you will have a beautiful design that will shine on your skin for a long time.
To take care of your tattoo and ensure rapid healing while preserving the brilliance of the colors, discover our IRINAU TATTOO balm . Formulated with natural ingredients from Tahiti, it moisturizes, soothes and protects your skin. Don't leave anything to chance for your tattoo: order yours today and take advantage of our total satisfaction or money back guarantee.