Sometimes, besides the excitement of getting a new tattoo and a desire to showcase it to the world, you may also have to deal with several uncomfortable signs aftercare.
Hence, if you wonder: “Why does my tattoo look wrinkled?”, it’s time to look at some potential reasons why this happens and several helpful tips for taking care of fresh tattoos. So, don’t miss out!
Why Does My Tattoo Look Wrinkled?
In general, a fresh tattoo is just an injury to the skin. Hence, it is nothing to worry about the affected skin area to undergo some transformations. When the tattooing needle penetrates your skin to deposit ink several times, it forms a wound to evoke the body into shedding the dead skin and replacing it with newly regenerated tissues.
Skin that regenerates in a rush may be delicate, sensitive, and look non-uniform compared to the surrounding areas. In addition, the formation of this outer skin layer is the reason why your skin’s area looks wrinkled as the healing process goes on, in contrast with the smooth surface when the tattoo’s first made.
Other possible causes leading to wrinkled tattoo are:
- Hydration issues: If the skin lacks hydration after the process, it could become dry and wrinkly.
- Skin type: Specific skin types may be prone to wound, and the wrinkled look could last longer in some cases. This also depends on the body parts where the tattoo is engraved. If the tattoo is performed on delicate areas such as hands or feet, it may look wrinkled for a couple of weeks.
- Inappropriate care: Lack of proper care can cause the tattooed skin to appear wrinkly and shiny. Hence, following an essential aftercare routine is recommended to keep a fresh ink and avoid trauma to the skin.
How Long Will Wrinkled Tattoo Lasts?
As tattoos heal, they can appear in several forms. Some can look wrinkly; others appear shiny, dull, scaly, or even normal with minimal effects. However, no matter what they look like, most will heal within 6 to 8 weeks.
The most effective way to facilitate the healing process is to ensure the skin is well-nourished and hydrated. Also, strictly following the tattooist’s instructions is crucial to decrease the healing time and eliminate unwanted dryness and scabbing.
Essential Tips To Take Care Of Fresh Ink
There are several ways you can try at home to take care of your tattoo and ensure its beauty with time. Note that it’s crucial to follow the aftercare appropriately to speed up the healing process and keep the tattoo vibrant. Also, always be patient with the healing time.
After the tattooing process, apply a thin layer of unscented lotion or moisturizing cream given by the tattoo artist twice a day or specific recommendations to ensure the tattoo remains vivid.
- Take a shower only and avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, or any activities that soak the tattoo underwater, as this may increase the chance of scrubbing.
- Only wash the tattoo with unscented antibacterial soap and lukewarm water using your hand. Do not use washcloths, scrubbing pads, or anything abrasive, as they can irritate the skin and exfoliate the area.
- Do not use petroleum-based products such as Vaseline to apply to the fresh tattoo as these are too thick and may clog the pores, prevent the skin from breathing and hinder the healing process.
- Refrain from scratching the tattoo as it causes the tattooed skin to bleed, leading to infection and damaging the tattoo’s look.
- Do not touch or allow anybody to touch the tattooed skin when it heals, as dirt and germs on hands can come in contact with the open wound.
- Keep the tattoo uncovered and avoid tight and restrictive clothes on the tattoo’s area, as this can rub on the new tattoo and affect its appearance. Hence, light, loose-fitting clothing is a great go-to option.
- Avoid strenuous physical labor or intense workout at all costs because heavy physical activities often make the skin crack and irritate, thus prolonging the healing time.
- Avoid direct sunlight because it is likely to damage the pigment particles of the new tattoo, causing it to bleach or blister. Hence, always wear sun-protective clothing when going outside or use sunscreen with an SPF of 35 to 50 to avoid excessive sun exposure.
The Final Words
Hopefully, you’ve grasped some fundamentals to answer the question: “Why does my tattoo looks wrinkled and cracked?”. While wrinkled skin is a normal reaction in the healing process, it’s vital to develop consistent and proper aftercare if you want to preserve the tattoo’s beauty and earn compliments for years to come.
Also, if you find this article practical and helpful, please share it with your friends or loved ones.
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