Introduction
Many people like getting a tattoo because it’s a source of enjoyment. Aftercare of tattoos is also compulsory because if you don’t look after your tattoo, then it may look ugly and unattractive. You can scratch a tattoo once it’s fully healed, which typically takes about 4-6 weeks. One of the most common questions among those with new tattoos is “When Can You Scratch A Tattoo ” It’s important to know the tattoo healing process, this may help you to avoid any infection.
Healing Process of a Tattoo
Initial stage: Days 1-6
After getting a tattoo, your skin will be red, swollen and might leak blood in small quantities. The healing process is fast when you completely take care of your skin. During this process, you should act upon the steps:
- Keep it clean: First, wash your tattoo with mild soap and it’s good to use warm water for skin.
- Moisturize: Apply a thin layer of cream or moisturizer on your skin.
- Avoid Scratching: Avoid scratching the tattooed area because it is sensitive and scratching it can lead to infection or any other major problem.
Itching Process: Days 7-14
By the end of the first week, your tattoo will start to scab. This time can be uncomfortable for you because as skin heals it also causes itching and discomfort.
- Do Not Pick or Scratch: Picking at scabs can remove the ink and can cause heal of your tattoo unevenly.
- Hydrate the Skin: Apply moisturizers recommended by the artist to avoid skin dryness.
Peeling Process: Days 15-30
Your tattoo peeling process will begin as your scabs start to fall. This happens when new skin begins to come out and old skin sheds.
- Light Itching is Normal: The itchiness will continue but try not to scratch.
- Soft touch: if you can’t bear the itch, then try using a soft cloth or gently tap the area.
- Use Fragrance-Free Products: Fragrances can irritate the healing skin.
Fully Healed: After 4 Weeks
At the end of the month, your skin will be almost completely healed up.
- Normal Skin Care Routine: It’s good to use moisturizers for your skin, you can also start your old routine.
- Sun Protection: It’s good to apply sunscreen to protect your tattoo from fading and being ugly.
- Avoid Scrubbing: Even if you absorb that the tattoo is healed, try not to scrub the skin for at least 2 weeks.
Why Does a Tattoo Itch?
Having knowledge that why your tattoo itches can help you to manage the discomfort better.
Healing Process
Itching is normal when your tattoo heals. Your skin makes new cells and gets rid of old ones. In this process, itchiness happens. Healing process can be fast for some skins, depending on the skin type.
Dry Skin
It’s good to keep your skin moisturized to avoid itching and infection. Keeping it moisturized can help stop itching.
Allergic Reactions
Sometimes, you might experience allergic reactions to tattoo ink. This can be the reason of itching.
Infections
The tattooed area can be infected, which can cause itching and become painful. Signs of infection include redness and increased pain.
Safe Ways to Relieve Tattoo Itch
Moisturize Regularly
Use a fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated. This reduces dryness and itching. Using moisturizers can help avoid infection. You can also buy skin care products such as cream and lotions.
Using a Cold Compress
It’s good to use a cold cloth. it can calm the itch and lessen the swelling. This can help to keep your skin hydrated and fresh.
Anti-Itch Creams
You can use anti-itch creams recommended by tattoo artist to avoid any infection and allergy. Conversate with your tattoo artist before taking any decision.
Gently tapping the tattoo
Gently tapping your tattoo area can provide temporary relief and can be the cause of relief from itching. This helps to avoid any damage.
What to Avoid During the Healing Process
Avoid Scratching or Picking
- Scarring: Can be the cause to ruin the tattoo appearance.
- Infection: Bacteria from your nails can enter the healing skin and cause infection.
- Ink Loss: Scratching can remove ink and can cause several problems like ugly appearance of tattoo.
Over-Moisturizing
Moisturizing the skin is important, but as you know use of anything is not good for the body. Using too much moisturizer can slow down the healing process.
Direct Sunlight
Direct sunlight on a new tattoo can cause:
- Fading: Rays of UV can fade the colors of tattoo.
- Burns: Direct sunlight on a new tattoo can lead to fading and sunburn.
Tight Clothing
Tight clothing can rub the tattoo, cause irritation, and can affect the healing process.
When Is It Safe to Scratch Your Tattoo?
After Full Healing
It’s good to act upon the following steps after the skin is healed:
- Moisturize Regularly: Keeps the skin soft to avoid itching and discomfort.
- Don’t scratch hard: Remember that a healed tattoo can be damaged by scratching, so it’s good to take care.
Pay Attention to Your Skin
Your skin sometimes shows signs of itching or infection, so it’s good to keep your skin moisturized and keep it dry.
Signs of Healing Complications
Long-lasting Redness and Swelling
If redness and swelling stays for more than few days, it could lead to infection or an allergic reaction.
Fluid or Pus
Any pus or unusual discharge from the tattooed area needs medical attention.
Intense Itching or Pain
If your skin’s itching or pain isn’t going away after skincare, then you should nearby tattoo artist or doctor.
Color Loss or Change
Uneven color loss or change can indicate improper healing. It can also cause issues with the ink.
Conclusions
The healing process requires patience. Knowing different processes of healing can help you to avoid itching or infection. Always follow the instructions given by tattoo artists or doctors to help skin heal fast. Remember, a little care can help in preserving the beauty and look of a tattoo.
FAQ's: When Can You Scratch A Tattoo
Q1: Is it okay to rub my tattoo if it itches?
Ans: It’s good not to rub your tattoo if it itches, because it can cause damage to the skin. Rubbing can irritate your skin and can affect your healing process. Instead, gently use a soft cloth to avoid any damage.
Q2: Should you scratch a new tattoo?
Ans: No, you should avoid scratching a new tattoo to prevent damaging the healing skin and the tattoo itself.
Q3: When can I start rubbing my tattoo?
Ans: You can start rubbing your tattoo gently once it has fully healed, usually after about 4 to 6 weeks you can rub your tattoo.
