Why Does My Tattoo Look Wrinkly?
Sometimes, the only thing more uncomfortable than getting a tattoo is dealing with all of the aftercare. If the brand new tattoo you were so excited about just a couple of weeks ago now looks a little wrinkly, don’t panic.
While your new tattoo’s wrinkles are nothing to worry about, having a consistent and straightforward aftercare regimen at this phase of the healing process is essential if you want your tattoo to be turning heads and earning compliments for years to come.
Why Is My Tattoo Wrinkly?
A new tattoo is essentially just a big wound. When the tattooing needle penetrates your skin thousands of times over a sitting, it causes enough trauma to prompt your body into shedding all of the damaged skin over the course of a week or two and replacing it with a brand new layer of regenerated tissue.
The new skin that’s grown in a rush will be quite non-uniform compared to the surrounding areas, as well as being quite soft and supple. It’s the makeup of this new skin that gives the area that wrinkly look. This is why tattoos tend to look rather smooth when they’re first made, before slowly peeling and looking more and more wrinkled as the healing process goes on.
How Long Will My Tattoo Look Wrinkly For?
Tattoos can take many forms as they heal. Some look wrinkly, while others look shiny, cloudy, dull or scaly. No matter what your tattoo looks like while it’s healing, it normally corrects itself over the course of a few weeks or months.
The best way to help your skin return to its normal self is by ensuring it’s well-nourished and hydrated. You can do this by applying a tattoo healing lotion to the area at least twice a day, or whenever the area is feeling flaky or dry.
It’s important, however, not to apply too much lotion to the area at any one time, as this can suffocate the tattoo and delay healing.
If you’re worried about your tattoo looking wrinkly while it’s healing, it’s best to give it at least two months to sort itself out – this is normally enough time for the new skin to settle and fit into its surroundings.
Look After That Wrinkled Skin
A wrinkled tattoo is just a tattoo in the earliest stages of the healing process. This is why an appropriate aftercare regimen is so important. An effective aftercare regimen will mean the difference between a vibrant piece of body art or a faded piece of gibberish that could either be the head of a lettuce or a portrait of your daughter, depending on the light and the angle.
While you’re getting used to your new tattoo, it’s essential to know what habits to avoid for a little while. For the first 3-4 weeks after you get your tattoo:
- Take showers only, and don’t submerge your tattoo in water. Avoid swimming or bathing in any body of water, natural or otherwise. No swimming pools, hot tubs or jetted bathtubs.
- Avoid using any petroleum-based topical solutions like vaseline, as these are too heavy to promote normal healing and will clog your pores.
- Avoid intense workouts or strenuous physical labor. Avoid any activity that will cause you to sweat excessively.
- Keep your tattoo uncovered (no bandage), and avoid direct sunlight.
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothes over the affected area.
When In Doubt, Consult Your Tattoo Artist For Guidance
You should take everything you’ve just read as general best practices only.
When it comes to the best aftercare regimen for your tattoo, listen to what your tattoo artist has to say and follow their instructions to the letter. This especially applies to those of you who have chosen to get larger and more elaborate tattoos.
Avoid strenuous exercise and direct sunlight, stick to showers and don’t submerge your tattoo in water under any circumstances. Once you’re out in the world showing off your new tattoo, it’s up to you to treat it properly and consistently.
Following these easy tips will help you keep your new body art looking its best for years to come.
Hey Dan Hunter, your blog post stirred up some fond memories for me! I too have spent countless summers kayaking down the Pease River, bobbing against its lazy currents 🌊. You paint such a vivid picture of its tranquil corners and hidden treasures. 🛶
However, I’m curious to know, have you explored the river during winter or fall? In my experience, the scenery completely transforms, adding a whole new dimension to the adventure. Also, don’t you think integrating a section on safety measures, for novice kayakers especially, would make this an even more invaluable guide?
Keep up the great work, Dan. Your articles always spark such an engaging conversation rooted in our shared passion for the great outdoors. Looking forward to your next one!