One thing you may not know before or after getting a tattoo is that the area of the skin is usually raised after completing the tattoo. While this may cause concern, it is important to understand that raised skin is usually just a normal part of the healing process. In this article, we will explore why tattoos become raised, when it is normal for a tattoo to be raised, and how to address a raised tattoo if necessary.
Is it Normal for a Tattoo to Be Raised?
Generally speaking, it is normal for a tattoo to be raised. While it is not normal for the skin around your tattoo to be puffy, if the tattoo itself is raised for a few days following your session, it is usually not a cause for concern.
Reasons for Raised Tattoos
There are several reasons why your tattoo may be raised:
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions play a significant role in the health of your skin. If you find that your tattoo has suddenly become raised, it may be due to weather conditions. This is typically seen when it is either very humid or very dry outside.
Body Chemistry
Your unique body chemistry could also play a role in whether or not your skin becomes raised. Some individuals may experience raised skin more significantly than others after being tattooed.
Allergic Reaction
If the skin surrounding the tattoo area becomes raised, it may indicate that you are having an allergic reaction to the ink. This is seen more often in those with tattoos that have colored ink, mostly red or yellow.
How Do You Fix a Raised Tattoo?
The approach to fixing a raised tattoo depends on the underlying cause. If your skin is simply raised because it is healing, the best course of action is to wait it out. If the weather is the cause, you may have to wait for the weather to subside before you can get any relief. However, be sure to wear sunscreen in the sun and keep your skin well-moisturized all year round.
However, other causes, like an allergic reaction or infection, require medical attention. Most symptoms will go away within a few hours without any need for medical intervention.
My Tattoo is Raised After One Year
It is common for a tattoo to be raised for a few days after it is completed, but is it normal for a tattoo to be raised after one year? The answer is most likely yes. As long as your tattoo isn’t displaying any alarming symptoms or patterns, then the raised skin can usually be attributed to a harmless anomaly. However, if you experience raised lines on your tattoo randomly and intermittently, it may require further investigation.
Warning Signs
While raised tattoos can typically be attributed to harmless causes, there are a few causes that require more concern, such as skin tissue damage, infection, or an allergic reaction. However, it is unusual for any of these to occur a full year after the tattoo has been completed and healed.
Why is My Tattoo Raised and Itchy at the Same Time?
If your tattoo is raised and itchy at the same time, it may be because your top layer of skin is shedding. Itchy and raised tattoos can be normal, but it is important to pay attention to any accompanying symptoms. If you experience symptoms such as itchiness, puffiness, or signs of infection, it is recommended to consult with your doctor.
A raised tattoo that may be infected can display distinct symptoms such as swelling, pain, white spots, oozing, scabs, rashes, warmth, or pimples. If you suspect an infection, contact your tattoo artist or doctor immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can a raised tattoo be a sign of an infection?
A: While raised tattoos are usually normal, in some cases, a raised tattoo can be a sign of an infection. It is important to pay attention to any accompanying symptoms and consult with a professional if necessary.
Q: How long does it take for a raised tattoo to go down?
A: The duration for a raised tattoo to go down can vary. In most cases, the raised skin should subside within a few days. However, if the raised skin persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
Q: Can I apply a numbing cream to a raised tattoo?
A: It is generally not recommended to apply numbing cream to a raised tattoo without consulting with a professional. Numbing creams may interfere with the healing process and can potentially cause further complications.
Conclusion
The healing process of a tattoo can involve raised skin, which is typically a normal part of the healing process. While most raised tattoos are harmless and subside within a few days, it is important to pay attention to any accompanying symptoms that may indicate an infection or allergic reaction. If you have any concerns about your tattoo, it is best to consult with a professional. Take proper care of your tattoo by following aftercare instructions and keeping an eye out for any abnormal symptoms.
