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After getting a tattoo, the first question that comes to mind is, “why is my tattoo bleeding ink?”. Having a tattoo is exciting, fun and gives you a feeling of empowerment. However, you have to prepare for unexplainable things that may happen during the healing process.
We understand that you get scared when tattoos start bleeding ink the next day. Do not worry because here we have everything you need to know about tattoos bleeding ink.
First, ink oozing out of your tattoo after a few days of having it is completely normal. Pain, scabbing, and bleeding are some of the common after-effects you need to deal with during the tattoo’s healing process. However, here we have a few reasons why your tattoo is bleeding ink under the skin.
1- Extra ink packing
Professional tattoo artists will pack extra ink inside your skin. If the ink is not packed properly inside your skin, your tattoo will be faded after healing. That is why all the extra ink in the skin will start bleeding out once healing begins.
2- Your immune system is rejecting foreign material
Our immune system is designated to remove all foreign bodies from our system, even tattoo ink. Thus, immune cells will try their level best to remove as much ink as possible, which is why tattoo ink is bleeding out of the outline.
3- Its plasma or blood and not the ink
During the tattoo healing process, blood and plasma will reach the top surface of the skin. Therefore, plasma and blood will start oozing out of the skin mix with ink which may appear like your tattoo is leaking ink. There is nothing to worry about because it is a sign your tattoo is healing.
Steps to Prevent Tattoo Ink Bleeding into the Skin
Bleeding is very normal, and there is no way you can prevent it from happening. However, some ways can heal your tattoo quickly so bleeding can stop. Here are some simple tricks which can surely help.
1- Get a tattoo from a professional tattoo artist
Common mistake people make is they get their tattoos from inexperienced individuals because they cost less. It can lead to bleeding, infections, scabbing, and various other problems. If you want to prevent bleeding ink, it is always better to consult a professional tattoo artist.
They will advise you about the type of tattoo you can get depending on your skin type. They will use proper techniques and sterilized instruments to get the best results.
To stop ink bleeding, you have to clean your tattoo properly.
Use an alcohol swab to clean the tattoo.
Lightly dab your tattoo with the swab to remove blood and ink. It will prevent from hardening of the skin.
Do not rub your tattoo because it will cause excessive bleeding.
Afterward, use warm water and antibacterial soap to wash the tattoo.
3- Apply good tattooing moisturizer
After cleaning your tattoo apply a good quality tattooing moisturizer or lotion. It will not only hydrate your skin but also keep it soft. It will speed up the healing process and prevent scarring. Always get a certified tattoo lotion.
4- Do not drink alcohol
To avoid excessive bleeding, it is advised to avoid drinking alcohol a few days before and after getting the tattoo. Alcohol makes your blood think which can cause more bleeding. So, avoiding alcohol will surely benefit you.
5- Sleep is a proper posture
Considering the part of the body where you have the tattoo, it is essential to sleep properly. Applying pressure on your tattoo in sleep will not only cause pain but will also increase bleeding. Moreover, bleeding ink can stain your bedsheets.
Determine a good posture and maintain it while sleeping by keeping pillows around you.
Take given medication to reduce pain and bleeding.
Avoid sleeping on new and light-colored bedsheets.
How Long does it take for the Tattoo to Heal and to Bleed to Stop?
Naturally, tattoo bleeding ink will stop within 2 to 3 days. Moreover, it can take a week if you have sensitive skin. Thus, depending on your skin type, your tattoo will properly heal within 1 to 2 weeks.
Once a tattoo heals properly, there is no way that it can start bleeding after years. If there is an infection, your tattoo may start bleeding again after a few weeks or months. Therefore, you need to take good care of your tattoo until the healing process stops.
When do I need to see a doctor?
Commonly you will not have to see a doctor for ink bleeding after getting a tattoo. Here are a few conditions in which you should immediately consult a specialist.
Your tattoo is continuously bleeding and not healing on its own.
By now, you know that tattoo bleeding ink while healing is normal, and there is nothing to worry about. Take good care of your tattoo so you can flaunt it in front of your friends once the bleeding stops. Keep your skin hydrated so your tattoo will always shine.
