Seeing your new tattoo start to flake or peel off can be alarming, especially when you notice bits of pigment pulling away from your skin. But don’t fret—this is a normal part of the healing process. As your body rids itself of dead cells, the new ink may appear waxy…
Getting inked will hurt—that’s inevitable. But how much pain you feel depends on three key factors: tattoo placement, your personal tolerance, and your artist’s technique. Areas with little fat, thin skin, or many nerve endings (like ribs or hands) tend to be most painful, while spots with thickest skin and…
Getting a tattoo is exciting, but the real work begins once you leave the studio. As someone who’s sat through multiple painful sessions, I can confirm—proper aftercare makes all the difference. The dermis (your skin’s middle layer) is punctured by multiple needles, leaving it sensitive. Modern tattoo artists use high-quality…
If you got a new tattoo a few days ago and are noticing some bleeding, don’t panic—it’s normal. However, keeping it clean is crucial to avoid infections and ensure the best results. Gently wash the area with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Pat it dry with a clean paper…
That itchy feeling on your new tattoo is completely normal – I’ve seen it countless times in my career. During the healing process, your skin goes through natural regeneration that causes itching, often making you want to scratch. While this is common, it’s important to resist scratching to avoid complications.…
With tattoos rising in popularity, so does regret—about 1 in 5 people with ink want to erase it. If you’re stuck with unwanted art, laser tattoo removal is a safe, proven solution, but don’t expect instant results. As a dermatologist, I often explain that this treatment is a gradual procedure—it…
Tattoos are a popular form of self-expression, but what happens when that old design no longer fits who you are? Many people grow and change, leaving them with unwanted ink that feels like a permanent problem. Years ago, the only options were to live with it or try dangerous, painful…
Tattooing over a previously removed tattoo is absolutely possible, but requires your skin to be fully healed and the old design faded significantly or completely gone. After multiple laser removal treatments to effectively fade and remove tattoos, your skin specialist will advise allowing ample time to heal – typically 6-12…