I recently had my first color tattoo done, and the process of getting it done and healing it was quite different from my previous black ink tattoos. I had so many questions and uncertainties throughout the whole experience. Does it hurt this much? Is it infected? In this article, I will share my personal experience and show you pictures of my color ink tattoo at different stages of the healing process.
The Tattooing Process
Before the actual tattooing began, the artist created a rough draft of the design and transferred it onto my arm. I chose to get a watercolor tree of life with my kids’ names and gave the artist creative control. The base of the tattoo, which consisted of black ink, took about 45 minutes to complete. The artist then proceeded to add the bulk of the color ink, which took a little less than an hour. During the color ink process, especially with red and brown ink, there was some bleeding, which is normal. Finally, the watercolor effect was added, which only took about 20 minutes. Throughout the process, my arm felt raw, and there was noticeable redness.
The Healing Process
Just minutes after the tattoo was completed, it was covered with Dynarex. There was a bit of blood, but I was instructed to change the Dynarex the following day after cleaning the tattoo and leave it on for one week. Within a few hours of leaving the tattoo shop, I started feeling unwell. I experienced aching, malaise, and my tattoo began to feel warm and swollen. I took some Tylenol for the discomfort, and these symptoms were later confirmed to be normal.
The next day, the tattoo resembled a mushroom soup, as it was expected to look like. I changed the bandage after 24 hours, as instructed by the artist. My arm was still swollen, red, and hot to the touch. Concerned about the swelling and redness, I visited the tattoo artist, who reassured me that it was normal. I even captured a short video clip of my arm, which showed swelling and tenderness, especially in the areas with blue ink.
Over the next few days, the swelling continued to increase, and I started marking it with a Sharpie to track its progress. The Dynarex bandage became more uncomfortable as it shrank over my raw tattoo. After 2.5 days, I couldn’t bear the discomfort anymore, so I switched to applying coconut oil and covering the tattoo with Saran wrap at bedtime. After four days, the tattoo became super peely and sometimes itchy. I made sure to keep it moisturized.
After one week, the tattoo was looking pretty good, but there was still some rawness in the center. Some parts of the ink were done deeper than others, resulting in a scar-like appearance when they peeled off. After three weeks, the tattoo continued to heal, and by the one-month mark, it had a beautifully healed appearance with vibrant colors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect during the healing process of a color tattoo?
The healing process of a color tattoo varies for each individual, but it generally involves redness, swelling, and peeling of the skin. It is important to follow proper aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist.
Is it normal for a color tattoo to feel warm and swollen during the healing process?
Yes, it is normal for a color tattoo to feel warm and swollen during the initial stages of healing. However, if you notice excessive heat, intense pain, or signs of infection, it is important to consult your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional.
Can I apply coconut oil or other moisturizers to my healing tattoo?
Yes, applying moisturizers like coconut oil can help keep the skin hydrated during the healing process. However, it is essential to ensure that the moisturizer is non-comedogenic and free from irritants.
Conclusion
Healing a color tattoo is a unique experience compared to black ink tattoos. During the healing process, it is common to experience redness, swelling, and peeling of the skin. It is crucial to follow proper aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist to ensure optimal healing and vibrant colors. Remember to consult your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or signs of infection during the healing process.
