Tattoos are more than just ink. They’re expressions of the individual, symbols, and stories. The healing process behind a tattoo can be physically and emotionally difficult.
Understanding the Healing Process
The healing process of a tattoo starts the moment the needle is pressed against the skin. The actual tattooing can be painful, but the days and even weeks that follow are often more difficult. Skin, a new canvas, goes through a healing process that can be affected by factors such as tattoo size, placement, and skin type.
The Initial Discomfort
It’s not uncommon to feel discomfort immediately after getting tattooed. Skin is like a wound and reacts accordingly. The skin will react with swelling, redness, and tenderness. There may be oozing ink and plasma. This can cause additional discomfort. It’s important to follow your tattoo artist’s instructions for aftercare.
The Painful Waiting Game
The healing process and discomfort continue to increase as the days go by. It may be that the skin feels tight and itchy. There could also be a persistent, dull ache around the tattooed region. You should resist the urge not to pick or scratch the skin as this could interfere with the healing and affect the outcome of the tattoo.
The Light at the End of the Tunnel
There is light at the end of the tunnel despite the pain. The tattoo gradually takes on its final shape as the skin regenerates with each day. As the healing process ends, vibrant colors and intricate details start to appear. It’s important to maintain proper aftercare in order to achieve the best outcome.
This post was written by J Michael Taylor. J Michael Taylor is an artist and owner of Black Amethyst Tattoo Gallery. Black Amethyst is the best among the tattoo shops in Clearwater Florida. They provide an art-first approach to custom tattooing in a gallery setting.