Is it normal for a tattoo to itch? This is a very common question among people who get one for the first time. Why does this happen and is there anything you can do to prevent an itchy tattoo from causing you discomfort?
That usually happens when it is healing, remember that when getting a tattoo it is necessary to prick the skin with needles and incorporate ink into the dermal layer, this process creates a wound in the skin.
When the healing process begins, the skin starts to repair itself and biological processes appear. One of the most common symptoms is itching during the healing process.
Wound healing has several stages and throughout this process the body's immune system fights germs and begins to heal.
Therefore, sometimes the tattoo may become swollen, red, tender, and itchy for up to three weeks after getting the tattoo.
Itching usually starts a few days after getting the tattoo, during the healing and scabbing phase. Itching may also occur in the later stages of the healing process, when the tattoo starts to peel off and the skin becomes moist.
However, itching should not be a cause for concern as it is usually a sign of a healthy healing process.
What can itching tattoo mean?
Itching after a tattoo is due to the healing process itself. The outer layers of the skin have been traumatized as the tattoo needle penetrates deep into the skin. The body responds to this trauma by sending increased numbers of immune cells to the area. These cells release antigens, which can cause a mild, temporary allergic reaction that causes itching.
Itching after tattooing is due to the healing process itself. The outer layers of the skin have been traumatized as the tattoo needle penetrates deep into the skin. Therefore, itching could be due to several factors including:
Dry Skin: The skin around the tattoo can become dry and itchy. Using a good water-based moisturizer can help alleviate this problem.
Allergic reaction: In this case, it is important to consult a dermatologist for guidance if you have symptoms of an allergic reaction such as swelling, redness, itching, blisters or bumps.
Some kind of infection: It is the least common factor, but infections can occur days or months after getting a tattoo. Itching and redness along with swelling, chills and pain can be a sign of infection.
Allergy to sun exposure: The presence of an itchy rash after getting a tattoo and being in the sun could be a sign of sun allergy. It can occur within minutes or hours after being in the sun, and symptoms such as swelling, redness, rash, itching, bumps, blisters, or hives will appear.
Other skin problems: When you get a tattoo, skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema may appear in or around the tattoo area, especially if you have a genetic predisposition. These skin conditions can appear three days or several years after you get the tattoo. Symptoms may appear between 10 and 20 days after getting the tattoo.
How can I stop a tattoo from itching?
There's really not much you can do to completely eliminate the itchiness of a new tattoo. However, there are some things you can do to help mitigate the discomfort.
- Hydration: The best way to relieve dry, itchy skin is to keep your tattoo well moisturized. Apply a thin layer of hypoallergenic, fragrance-free lotion to the tattooed area at least two to three times a day. This will keep the skin soft and supple, reducing the itchy sensation.
- Do not scratch yourself: One of the most important things to remember is to resist the urge to scratch the itchy area. Scratching can damage the newly healed skin and create small scars that will change the appearance of the tattoo. Instead of scratching, try lightly patting the area with a clean hand or a washcloth to relieve the itchy sensation.
- Avoid the heat: Heat can exacerbate itching in the tattooed area. Avoid very hot showers and baths and stay out of direct sunlight as much as possible while the tattoo is healing.
- Stay away from lichen: Some substances, such as lichen or poison ivy, can cause a stronger allergic reaction in the tattooed area. Try to avoid exposure to these plants and other substances that may trigger an allergy.
- If infection appears in the area: You need immediate medical attention as your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or other medications to treat it.
- Protect your tattoo from sun exposure: Apply sunscreen with a factor of 30 or higher to prevent itching and fading of inks caused by UV rays.
- Dry Skin: If you tend to have dry skin, to combat itching and dryness, you need to keep the area well moisturized with a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free lotion or specific tattoo aftercare products.
Itching is a normal part of the healing process for a new tattoo. The immune response and dry skin left behind by the healed tattoo can cause itching, making the area feel uncomfortable.
There are some things you can do to help reduce the itching. Keep the tattoo well hydrated, avoid heat and sun exposure, and do not scratch the area. can help reduce the itching sensation. This will help make your experience with your new tattoo as pleasant as possible.
It would also be important to talk to your doctor to find out if you have any allergies, or any kind of contraindications, or if there is any genetic issue with your skin. You can first consult with a dermatologist before getting the tattoo, to make an informed decision and ensure that it is completely safe.