When a new tattoo appears raised, it is a common occurrence that can be part of the typical healing process. This reaction can cause concern for those new to tattoos. Understanding the reasons behind a raised tattoo, from expected responses to potential complications, helps with proper care.
Normal Causes of Tattoo Raising
Tattooing deposits ink into the dermis through small punctures. The body perceives this as an injury, initiating an inflammatory response. Blood vessels dilate, increasing blood flow, which contributes to temporary warmth, redness, and swelling. This inflammation helps deliver immune cells and nutrients for healing, causing tattooed lines to feel raised.
As skin repairs, the immune system responds to the ink as a foreign substance. White blood cells move to the area to engulf ink particles. This immune activity contributes to localized swelling and a mildly raised appearance. This raising is temporary, subsiding as the initial healing phase progresses over a few days to a week.
Identifying Concerning Issues and When to Seek Help
While some raising is normal, persistent or worsening symptoms can indicate a problem like an infection or allergic reaction. Signs of infection include redness that darkens or spreads, pain that continues or worsens, and a rash with itchy, red, or painful bumps. Other indicators are fever, chills, pus or foul-smelling yellow drainage, or red streaking from the tattoo. If these symptoms appear, especially with fever or increasing pain, seek medical attention promptly.
Allergic reactions to tattoo ink can also cause persistent raising. Symptoms may include persistent itching, significant swelling, small pimple-like bumps, raised scaly patches, deep lumps, or blisters that may leak watery fluid. These reactions can develop immediately or even years later. If a mild reaction lasts longer than one to two weeks, consult a dermatologist. Severe allergic reactions are rare but require immediate medical care; these can manifest as difficulty breathing, a racing heart, chest tightness, dizziness, intense swelling, severe pain, flushing, or hives.
Optimal Aftercare Practices
Proper aftercare is important to support healing and minimize complications that could lead to a raised tattoo. Initially, the tattoo artist will bandage the new tattoo, which should remain in place for a few hours or as advised. After removing the bandage with clean hands, gently wash the tattoo with a mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water. Pat the area dry with a clean paper towel, avoiding rubbing, and allow it to air dry completely before applying a thin layer of fragrance-free moisturizer.
Consistency in this cleaning and moisturizing routine for two to four weeks helps maintain skin hydration and prevents excessive scabbing, which can contribute to uneven healing. Avoid picking or scratching any scabs or flaking skin, as this can disrupt ink placement and increase the risk of infection or scarring. Protect the new tattoo from direct sun exposure and avoid immersing it in water, such as in baths, hot tubs, or swimming pools, until it is fully healed to prevent infection and ink fading. Wearing loose-fitting clothing over the tattooed area can also help prevent irritation and promote airflow, supporting optimal healing.