How to deal with an Itchy Tattoo
While getting a tattoo, the main things you’re thinking of are the pain and discomfort while getting it. While it feels nice to be over this pain when the tattoo is done and settled, there’s another more literal itch to deal with. Yes, the dreaded tattoo itch that comes as part of the healing process. While it can be frustrating, we’ll explain why tattoos itch and the best ways to deal with them.
Why Do Tattoos Itch?
To understand why tattoos it’s we’ll give a quick explanation to how tattoos heal. When tattoos pierce the skin to deposit ink into the dermis layer of our skin. Your body’s immune system will kick in automatically. This is through the bleeding and swelling of your skin, where the phagocytic cells in your blood are trying to pick up as much debris as they can. Then your skin tissue is repaired or regenerated by the fibroblast cells in your skin.
The result will first come as a layer of scabbing that will form on top, at the epidermis layer of your skin. This will be generally dry, tight and itchy. The tattoo itch will be at it’s worst around the two week mark when the peeling starts.
While it is annoying, it’s showing that your tattoo is healing properly. Although there is the risk that any scratches to your tattoo can cause further scarring and take out some ink. It’s generally best to wait until your scabs have fully peeled and the skin has healed before scratching the area.
Best ways to deal with Tattoo Itch
Dealing with tattoo itching is part of proper aftercare. Taking proper care of your tattoo will also help deal with itchiness. Let’s go over some of the best ways to deal with your tattoo itch, while keeping your tattoo safe.
1. Moisturizing is the key
It cannot be said enough, but we’ll say it. Keep your tattoo moist. Dry skin won’t just cause itchiness, it will cause issues for your tattoo healing. Using aftercare lotion or salve will help keep your tattoo moist. Be sure to apply a thin layer whenever your tattoo feels dry. Be sure not too put too much, as it can suffocate the skin and slow down healing.
2. Wash your tattoo
Proper hygiene will help your tattoo heal quick and remove any dead skin and irritants. Use lukewarm water and a mild, unscented soap to clean your tattoo. Be sure to pat your tattoo dry, without rubbing it. Wait five to ten minutes for your skin to air dry before moisturizing.
3. Don’t scratch your tattoo
As tempting as it is, please don’t scratch your tattoo. This won’t just damage the tattoo’s design, it can also introduce bacteria and prolong healing. If the itch is getting really annoying. Give it a light tap to take the edge of the itchiness.
4. Stay Hydrated
Since our bodies are made of water, it should be obvious to stay hydrated for other reasons. For tattoos, hydration will help your skin heal properly and stay in it’s best condition. A good bonus would be to add more vitamins and antioxidants to your diet to help your healing.
5. Avoid Tight Clothing
While it can tempting to wear tight clothing after getting your tattoo done. Tight clothes rub against your tattoo, which can irritate the tattoo more and add to the itchiness. Loose, breathable clothing is the best choice while you’re healing.
6. Cool your tattoo down
A cold compress with a damp cloth or a soothing gel pack can help deal with the inflammation and itchiness from your tattoo. Just be sure that your cloth or gel pack are clean in order to avoid infection.
7. Skip the Heavy Workouts
Heading to the gym and getting a work out might seem like a good way to get over the itchiness. But, the reality is that sweating and excess movements can irritate your healing tattoo, and cause your scabs to crack. Taking a break until the itching goes away is better overall for your tattoo.
Avoid doing this
Please avoid doing any of these things:
Scratching or Picking: This can ruin your tattoo, cause scarring and introduce bacteria.
Over-Moisturizing: This can suffocate your tattoo, and prolong healing.
Fragrances and Harsh Products: These can irritate the sensitive skin of your tattoo, and cause more itchiness.
Constantly using Ointments: Once the tattoo has fully peeled, switch to a thinner and lighter lotion to avoid clogging your pores.
Do I need to call my Tattoo Artist or Doctor?
While itchiness can be concerning at times, this isn’t the only thing you should be looking out for. A bacterial infection would show redness, swelling, extreme discomfort, and pus. These are infection symptoms you have to keep an eye out for. If these symptoms show up next to your itchiness, contact your artist and doctor as soon as possible.
Conclusion
While itchiness is annoying, it’s a normal part of the healing process. Just be patient, and take proper care of your tattoo. After it’s healed, that itch will be just a memory. Until you get your next tattoo.
Want to get a quality tattoo of your own? We here at Golden Hours are happy to help you. With our experienced tattoo artists, we’re sure that we can give you an inked piece you’ll be happy to carry for a lifetime. Send us a message on our contact page, or through our social media pages to book a consultation or appointment.
