On which layer of the skin are tattoos done?

Have you ever wondered what layer of the skin tattoos are made on? Where is it stored or what happens to it when it is tattooed? The truth is that tattoos are the result of certain aggressions on our skin and its attempt to protect itself. Therefore, it is important to go to a professional tattoo studio to cause the least possible damage. It is vital to follow the hygienic measures that accompany this profession to the letter. In today’s post, we will talk about the structure of the skin and what happens when it is tattooed. Continue reading and find out about this process if you are thinking about tattooing any part of your body.

What layer of the skin are tattoos done on?

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To answer this question we need to know the structure of the skin. The first layer we see is the epidermis. This is the thinnest and most superficial part. It is 0.1 mm thick and the cells that make it up are constantly regenerating. This is therefore the layer that is pierced by the tattoo needle, up to 50 thousand times per minute.

When the needle pierces the epidermis, we reach the dermis, the thickest layer. This is where the tattoo is placed and where the ink is stored. Unlike the dermis, the dermis contains nerve endings and blood vessels, which is why it hurts and we bleed when we get a tattoo.

Thirdly, we find the hypodermis. This is the deepest layer, and you should never tattoo it. Otherwise, halos may appear on the drawing, as well as causing intense pain and bleeding.

How do you tattoo skin?

The needle loaded with ink passes through the first layer until it reaches the dermis, where it releases the color pigments. This also tears nerves and blood vessels, causing pain and bleeding.

With each piercing, the needle of the tattoo machine creates a kind of tube in the layer of skin, through which ink is injected until it is full. This is how the design gradually becomes defined. What happens next makes the tattoo last a lifetime.

Why won’t a tattoo go away?

A tattoo is not erased because the skin activates its defense mechanism. Let’s see how it works. When a large amount of ink is injected, the skin reacts by encapsulating it, as happens with any external substance. It isolates it to protect itself. The skin cells create a film around the tube, previously created with the tattoo needle. This film or covering manages to store the ink so that it does not escape and, in turn, makes the tattoo permanently impregnated in the skin.

The healing process also plays an important role. This process seals the wounds caused by the needle, at each puncture of the epidermis. So that each tube filled with ink is sealed on all sides, both internally and externally. But for the tattoo to heal properly, it is necessary to follow a series of guidelines.

We must prevent the tattoo from becoming infected since it is still a wound. To do this, it is important to cover it and wash it with soap to keep it clean. Professional tattoo artists also recommend applying moisturizing cream on the tattoo, to try to keep it hydrated and promote healing.

Tattoos on brown skin

The truth is that before tattooing, factors such as skin tone must be taken into account. If the skin is rather dark, the professional should opt for bright colors and thick lines. It is therefore advisable not to opt for small drawings with many details since they could go unnoticed and the drawing not be appreciated well. The best tattoos on dark skin are large with very bright colors, since the darker the skin, the more distinct the colors will be in the final result.

What type of skin is not suitable for a tattoo?

One of the key considerations in this process is to know if there is any type of skin that is not suitable for a tattoo. As a general rule, no type of skin can be tattooed, although the presence of skin disorders or diseases is a sign that it is not advisable to get a tattoo.

Therefore, if you suffer from dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, lichen, or lupus, it is best to abstain. These skin conditions may involve a higher risk of complications and, depending on the area, may make the procedure impossible.

Recommendations for caring for tattooed skin

If you want to take care of your newly made tattoo, keep it clean and bandaged for the hours indicated by the tattoo artist. Normally, 2 to 12 hours is recommended. As we have mentioned, it is important to cover it to prevent infection since it is a wound.

Wash the tattoo three times a day for eight to ten days. Use the palm of your hand to gently rub it in circles and pat dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Let it air dry for about 20 minutes before covering it again.

Apply a moisturizing cream to hydrate the tattoo well. This will prevent the skin from becoming sore and tight after washing it. Simply apply a thin layer until it is completely absorbed by the skin. You should also not apply too much as this can cause bacteria to develop.

Don’t forget to put sunscreen on your tattoo whenever you go out in the sun. Especially if it’s new, it’s recommended to avoid sun exposure for at least 3 or 4 weeks, until it’s fully healed. Otherwise, it may appear streaked or lose color.

Study tattoo at Des Arts School

Learn everything you need to know about the process of getting a tattoo thanks to the specialization in the field that we offer you. Throughout your training, you will learn about the different materials used in a tattoo studio, the strokes, and the essential hygiene and prevention measures to guarantee the safety and well-being of clients, among others.

What else do you need to make the decision? Train yourself in what you are passionate about and focus your efforts on what truly makes you happy!