Getting tattooed is not merely a fashion statement, rather, it’s more of an art. And this is the only kind of art wherein there may or may not be a super deep meaning behind it; people get tatted up just for fun and a change, or they get a tattoo that is symbolic of something in their life, either way, tattoos are a bold and beautiful way of expressing yourself. However, along with the common risks related to tattoos, that people are most probably aware of, one major problem that might arise because of it is tattoo scars. And surprisingly enough, this issue is not talked about enough. But fortunately for you, we have a crash course on the same and ways to remove tattoo scars and everything you need to know about them!
What are Tattoo Scars?
Usually, tattoos tend to heal in a given span of time provided you follow the instructions your tattoo artist asked you to. And if you did not, then there are chances of tattoo scarring. But that is also likely to happen even when you have taken ample care of your tattoo. Tattoo scars are most likely to appear because of the needle penetrating the layers of skin a bit too much. This is why most professional tattoo artists go with the entire process with an extremely delicate hand and don’t apply extra pressure.
But if your tattoo artist is a bit inexperienced or merely careless, they might accidentally penetrate the needle too deep in your skin, thereby damaging your skin tissues, which then leads to tattoo scarring. However, tattoo scars may develop post-tattoo-healing as well. And another reason is picking scabs or scratching that area of your skin.
How do you Identify Tattoo Scars?
If your tattoo scars occur as a result of skin damage because of improper needle use, then it is mostly easy to identify these scars or marks. But if you get these scars as a result of the healing process post-ink, then it can get difficult for you to tell the difference. This is because when you get a fresh tattoo, the surrounding skin might appear red or can even get itchy after the first few weeks of getting inked.
Here are certain symptoms which can help you differentiate healing scars from Tattoo Scars:
- Red and/or itchy skin even after complete healing of the tattoo, i.e., after a month or two.
- Skin rashes or burns.
- Distortion or fading within the tattoo.
- Skin infection around the inked area.
- Swollen or bruised appearance of the tattooed area.
- Pitting or distortion of the skin.
- Dry skin even after the tattoo has fully healed.
How to Treat Tattoo Scars?
Generally, getting rid of tattoo scars depends greatly on the severity of the scar as well as on your skin and its healing abilities. But here are 5 simple but pretty effective ways to treat tattoo scars.
1. Use Aloe Vera Gel
It is an extremely renowned fact that Aloe Vera has a great bunch of benefits including several skin-healing properties. Although this won’t completely treat your scar, it will, however, help in reducing the redness, itchiness, and swelling of your skin. Cut an aloe plant in half, secure the content from the inside by scraping it off, crush it or stir it well and apply some of the product very gently on the required ara; you could also directly rub a part of the plant after cutting it on the affected area and softly massage it.
2. Moisturize
This yet another commonly known trick of treating dry and itchy skin and works the same when you need to treat tattoo scars. Moisturize your affected skin regularly with soft hands and low pressure, to reduce dryness and hydrate your skin thoroughly.
3. Bio-Oil to Your Rescue
This is a highly popular cosmetic product that is used for skin problems, especially for treating scars on your skin. It contains numerous vitamins which help in the regeneration of your skin and boost the collagen production in your skin as well. This is why it is one of the best ways to treat tattoo scars. Apply it gently around your tattoo scar for a few months regularly, and you will notice significant results in no time.
4. A Touch-Up
A tattoo touch-up is only advisable if your tattoo has faded away or distorted, and is not the best option because if you have a deep scar within your skin, then piercing a needle is not exactly going to be helpful to you.
5. Makeup Cover
This is more of a way to cover your tattoo scar than to treat or heal itg. So, this way is only advisable if your tattoo scar is not that severe and is only on the lines of visible redness, dry skin, etc. Covering the scarred part of your skin will camouflage it and hide the scar but it won’t heal it.
How to Avoid Tattoo Scarring?
The best way to not get a tattoo scar is to take the utmost care of your tattoo and probably don’t get inked unless and until you are sure that the tattoo artist is a good and experienced one. Make sure after getting inked, the tattoo artist applies an ointment on your tattoo as it is a vital part of the entire process and keep in touch with them if you see the formation of any scars even after a couple of months.
Hydrate, moisturize, and exfoliate your skin to avoid scraggy or dry skin and avoid picking scabs or scratching your tattoo or the area around it all costs! The less you tamper with your tattoo, the faster and better it will heal and that means lesser chances of tattoo scars as well. And if you are starting to develop any type of skin infection, then consult your dermatologist as soon as possible. You should also do the same if treating your scar in the following ways does not help in any way and has no difference at all.
Also Read: Tattoo Removal Cost