Tattoo Symptoms Similar to Scars
Tattoos resembling scars can exhibit symptoms like raised skin, scabbed-over areas, and bleeding during healing. This is caused by broken blood vessels, which can be reduced by applying aloe vera directly on the tattoo. It’s essential to choose an experienced artist who can tattoo over scars.
Redness and Inflammation
After getting a tattoo, the skin may appear red, inflamed, and sore for a few weeks. Most redness should subside within a few days, but persistent or intensifying redness could indicate infection. Itching is normal during healing, but consult a physician if it persists with pain, swelling, or other symptoms.
Oozing and Scar Tissue Formation
Some oozing is expected during the healing stage, but excessive blood or gunk can indicate overworked areas and lead to scar tissue formation. Applying aloe vera or scar ointment can help reduce the appearance of scars, and keeping the tattoo moisturized prevents dryness that could make scars more visible.
Texture of Tattoo Scars
Tattoo scars often consist of raised, puffy skin along the tattoo lines. While this is normal initially, it should gradually fade as the spot continues to heal. Look out for dips or signs of infection within the scar and address them promptly.
Scab Formation and Healing
Scab formation is a normal part of healing that protects the wound. To speed up healing and minimize scarring, moisturize the tattoo during this phase and avoid picking or peeling scabs, as it can delay recovery and cause unsightly scarring.
Considerations for Color
Tattoos that mimic scars use ink blends to match your complexion and diminish scarring. When choosing an artist, ensure they understand texture and color differences in scarring. Scar tissue may not absorb ink evenly, resulting in feathered edges, lines, or spots with no ink. Multiple touch-ups may be required for the ink to settle correctly.
Designing Tattoos over Scars
Tattoos over scars can be challenging as scar tissue doesn’t heal quickly and can appear raised and puffy. Finding an artist experienced in tattooing over spots is essential to achieve the desired design.
Symbolic Meaning and Support
Tattoo scars can hold significant symbolic meaning, representing personal experiences or showing support for others. For example, the semicolon tattoo is popular among people with Crohn’s disease as a symbol of dedication to health and well-being.
Choosing an Experienced Artist
If you plan to get a tattoo over a scar, finding an artist with experience in this specific type of work is crucial. This ensures that your tattoo will look its best during the application and healing processes.
