The benefits of a trained tattoo artist for healthy skin

Recently, an interesting one appeared Pano report about tattoos. In it, Tijs Vanneste, himself a tattoo artist, warns about the dangers of the tattoo shop around the corner or among friends. He calls for the benefits of the trained tattoo artist. What's really about that?

What does getting a tattoo mean for the skin?

A tattoo is injected into the skin via needles containing ink pigment. Something that gives our attention as dermatologists does pull. This is how it works for the skin:

1. The needles used to get the tattoo inject the ink into the dermis layer of the skin.
2. This layer of skin can retain the ink and this is how a permanent tattoo is created.
3. In the first few days to a week after getting the tattoo, the skin may swell and a crust may form.
4. After that, the dermis layer will repair itself and heal.

This means: if the tattoo has been applied in a hygienic way. Because if that is not the case, the skin can suffer damage that is not so easy to repair.

Why is it important to get a tattoo done correctly?

If you go to an experienced tattoo artist, this is in most cases safe. Nevertheless, more and more people are opting for the fast or cheap options: stick and pokes, friends, the tattoo artist who learned the trade via the internet... And that is exactly what Vanneste warns about.

Where he was trained by years of practicing on pigskin and oranges, among other things, that step is now being skipped. So with the faster or cheaper options, there is often less knowledge of how the skin works. And let that be very important for a good healing process.

Why should you visit a trained tattoo artist?

Fewer allergic reactions

When the ink is not applied correctly, there is a higher risk of developing an allergic reaction. This is because your immune system will pick up this as an intruder and respond by producing antibodies. This can cause severe swelling, itching, redness and, in some cases, permanent scarring. Someone who is trained in this knows how to handle the skin and how to apply the ink for a safe tattoo.

Lower risk of infections

Infections mainly occur when you do not work hygienically when installing the tattoo. Sterile needles and professional materials are so important to keep skin healthy. If this is not the case, bacteria can enter the skin during tattooing.

Preventing scarring

Scars can be the result of various factors: ink injections that are too deep, poor ink quality and poor tattoo care are the main culprits.

What is the best way to care for a (new) tattoo?

Good aftercare is almost as important as choosing the right tattoo artist. We are happy to give you our best tips from dermatological point of view.

Keep the tattoo clean and dry The foil that is applied is used to repel bacteria, but also ensure that the tattoo stays clean afterwards. Preferably opt for a mild soap without perfumes to avoid irritation.

Smear a thin layer of ointment Your tattoo artist will give you an ointment to care for the skin. It helps moisturize the skin to facilitate the healing process. Always apply the ointment with clean hands.

Don't cover the tattoo too tightly The tattoo must be able to breathe in order to heal. Avoid bandages and opt for loose clothing.

Protect from the sun Damaged skin is extra sensitive to the sun. Make sure you cover the tattoo for the first few weeks, but even after that, a sunscreen with a factor of 50+ is a must. Do you notice that your skin reacts badly to a new tattoo? Our team of dermatologists is always ready for quick advice via the Skindr app. ‍

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