When getting a new tattoo, everyone hopes for clean lines, smooth shading, and vibrant colors. However, some tattoos may appear blurry, with ink bleeding into each other, resulting in a smudged and unprofessional look. This phenomenon is known as tattoo blowout, which can ruin an otherwise beautiful piece.
During the healing process of a new tattoo, it is normal for some ink, along with blood and plasma, to be pushed out. This temporary leakage usually lasts for about 48 hours and does not typically cause any harm or lead to tattoo blowout. However, if bruising occurs, the tattoo may appear slightly blurred or smudged. As the bruising fades, the tattoo should start to look better and more defined. In contrast, if it is a tattoo blowout, the appearance will worsen over time.
What Is a Tattoo Blowout?
Tattoo blowouts occur when ink spreads out in the fat layer beneath the skin’s surface or due to scarring. This usually happens when a tattoo artist applies too much pressure, deposits ink at the wrong angle, or overworks the skin. While tattoo blowouts are more common with inexperienced artists, they can happen to anyone.
Tissue samples from individuals with tattoo blowouts show that the ink goes deeper into the skin than intended, causing it to blur, blend, and bleed together. This results in a messy and unprofessional-looking tattoo. Tattoo blowouts can also be more painful during the tattooing process. However, it is important to note that tattoo blowouts are not a sign of infection.
Although tattoo blowouts do not pose any additional health risks, they are aesthetically displeasing and often leave people unsatisfied with their new tattoos.
How to Prevent Tattoo Blowout
Prevention is key when it comes to tattoo blowouts. It is much easier and less invasive to prevent them from happening in the first place rather than trying to fix the problem later. Tattoo blowouts are typically the result of mistakes made during the tattooing process, often due to rushing or the artist being careless, distracted, or having an off day.
To help your tattoo artist avoid mistakes, it is important to stay calm and still while being tattooed. Fidgeting or moving around can increase the risk of a blowout. Additionally, choosing areas of the body with thicker skin, such as the legs, can help prevent blowouts. Thinner areas of skin, such as the foot, ankle, or inside of the arm, are more prone to blowouts and can also be more painful with a longer healing process.
Researching and choosing a tattoo artist with experience and skill can greatly reduce the risk of tattoo blowouts. Look at their previous work and consult with friends, family, or the community to gauge their artistic ability. It is crucial to get tattooed by a licensed artist who maintains a clean and well-maintained shop. Additionally, proper aftercare is essential for the healing process of the tattoo.
Is There a Tattoo Blowout Fix?
Discovering a blowout on your tattoo can be devastating, especially after investing time and money into it. Fortunately, there are a few options to consider for fixing a tattoo blowout:
Tattoo Blowout Removal Options:
More Tattooing: Getting more tattooing once the original tattoo is fully healed can be a cost-effective way to fix a blowout. This involves improving the look of the tattoo by covering up the mistakes with additional tattooing. However, if the blowout is severe, the new tattoo coverup may need to be larger or more intense than the original design, potentially altering the overall look of the tattoo. It is important to find a tattoo artist experienced in coverups and working with traumatized skin to avoid further blowouts and achieve a design you’ll love.
Laser Correction: Laser therapy is available to reduce the appearance of a blowout without altering the design of the tattoo. Laser treatments use energy waves to break down the excess ink, resulting in a tattoo that looks closer to the intended design. Keep in mind that laser correction can be costly, especially for larger tattoos. Multiple sessions may be required, and it is considered a cosmetic procedure not covered by insurance.
Surgical Removal: For those who are truly unhappy with their tattoo, surgical removal is an option. This involves cutting off the skin with the tattoo and sewing the skin back together. However, this method is invasive, suitable only for smaller tattoos, and may leave scarring. It is also not covered by insurance and can be expensive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I prevent tattoo blowouts?
A: To prevent tattoo blowouts, choose a skilled and experienced tattoo artist, stay calm and still during the tattooing process, and properly care for your tattoo during the healing process. Avoid areas of thin skin and opt for areas with thicker skin.
Q: Can a tattoo blowout be fixed?
A: Tattoo blowouts can be fixed through additional tattooing, laser correction, or surgical removal. The best approach depends on the severity of the blowout and personal preference.
Q: How much does tattoo laser correction cost?
A: The cost of tattoo laser correction varies depending on the size of the tattoo and the number of sessions required. It is generally considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance.
Conclusion
Experiencing a tattoo blowout can be disheartening, but there are options available to address the issue. To minimize the risk of tattoo blowouts, it is crucial to select a skilled tattoo artist, take your time during the tattooing process, and follow proper aftercare instructions. If a blowout does occur, additional tattooing, laser correction, or surgical removal can help improve the appearance of the tattoo. Remember to thoroughly research and evaluate tattoo artists before getting inked, and always prioritize proper care for your tattoos to maintain their quality and longevity.
For more information and to purchase TKTX Numbing Cream, visit the TKTX Numbing Cream Store.
