Tattoos are a great way to portray your personality without speaking a single word.
They make you look more aesthetic, but most people have one common issue after getting a tattoo is swelling.
However, this problem is widespread, but still, you should be careful. There are many factors like the tattoo location, the tattoo process, blood thinners consumption, etc. that can cause tattoo swelling.
This article will talk about some great tips that you should follow to reduce tattoo swelling quickly. So without further ado, let’s get started.
What Can You Do To Reduce Tattoo Swelling?
1. Don’t Take Hot Showers.
If you have just got a tattoo, then it is better not to take hot showers. The high temperature raises the blood flow, which negatively affects the tattooed area.
A general rule of thumb is that you should not let your body contact a hot area for the next 2 days after getting the tattoo.
Don’t cover the tattooed area for an extended period. Keep the air supply proper by wearing loose clothes. Also, keep yourself away from heat and try to keep your body.
2. Avoid Pressure On The Tattooed Area
One great way to reduce the swelling is by letting the tattooed area as exposed as possible.
It would be best if you always tried to avoid any pressure around that area, so it is recommended not to touch the tattoo for some time.
If possible, don’t cover the area for 24 hours or wear something breathable and light. Allow your body to heal from the open wound caused because of the tattoo.
Please don’t pick the scabs as it could ruin your tattoo finishing and cause bacterial infection. Maintain proper hygiene and try to keep the tattooed body part fresh and dry.
3. Apply Cold Compress
If you are not familiar with the cold compress process, then it’s straightforward.
You have to put some ice into water, dip a cotton piece, and apply it all over the tattooed area. Just make sure to do it as gently and smoothly as you can.
This will cause a cooling effect, which will soothe the swollen area and make you feel comfortable. For better results, leave the cotton for 25 to 30 minutes.
You should know that moisture is not good for fresh wounds, so extract all the water from the cotton piece before icing your tattoo.
4. Follow A Good Tattoo Aftercare Routine
Getting a tattoo is a big deal because it can’t be removed easily once it’s done. That’s why you should make sure that your tattoo looks perfectly fine.
However, a good tattoo will do their job correctly, but if you don’t follow a good tattoo after routine, it could ruin your tattoo and cause many problems.
For some days after getting a tattoo, you should only use a mild antibacterial soap to avoid any irritation or infection. Use a fresh towel to dry your tattoo, and if you feel excessive swelling and pain, you should also use anti-inflammatory balm.
5. Don’t Consume Blood Thinners
Once you get your tattoo, your main should be on keeping your body temperature low for the first few days.
Blood thinners elevate the blood flow in your body, which increases the swelling and causes pain and discomfort. That’s why you should not consume blood thinners like coffee or alcohol for at least 24 hours after getting tattooed.
Drink more water and consume food items or natural beverages that are proven to reduce body temperature.
Also, please don’t indulge in any water-related activity as it can delay your body’s healing. If your swelling is not going away even after 1 or 2 weeks, you should consider taking professional help.
After talking about the fundamental tips, it’s time to put some light on the common questions regarding tattoo swelling that most people have in their minds.
How Long Tattoo Swelling Last?
Most people worry about the tattoo swelling, but the good thing is that this swelling doesn’t last long. In the majority of the cases, the swelling disappears after 7 days.
However, this varies from person to person, but you should expect swelling for at least a week. Now the body part, which is being tattooed, also plays a vital role in determining the swelling duration.
For example- if you are tattooing your hand, then the swelling should only last 24-48 hours. On the flip side, if you place a tattoo near a joint, you might see swelling for a week.
What Can I Take To Reduce Tattoo Pain?
As mentioned above, tattoo swelling is widespread, but you should consider taking an ice pack if you want to reduce it as soon as possible. One suggestion is that you should never use ice directly to the tattooed area as it can irritate wounds.
The best thing you could do is to prepare a cold compress and apply it smoothly on your skin. In case of excessive pain and irritation, you should consider taking an anesthetic spray. It will alleviate the pain and control the swelling.
Why Is My Tattoo So Swollen?
Everyone experiences swelling after getting tattooed, so there is nothing to worry about. Now the amount of swelling depends on a wide variety of factors like your body type, the tattoo’s place, the length of the tattoo, and many more.
For example- if you are getting a tattoo in an area where your skin doesn’t get stretched, then you will only experience a minor swelling, which will disappear within a few days. But in areas near movable body parts, you might experience more swelling.
It also depends on the tattoo aftercare. If the nearby joint is continuously moving, then your swelling will last for more time, that’s why it is recommended to rest the tattooed body part for some days.
Final Words
That’s what you can do to reduce the tattoo swelling quickly. Tattoo Swelling is expected, you don’t have to worry much. Follow the proper aftercare routine and all the topics maintained above.
We hope this article helps you. If the article helps you in any manner, then do share it on social media and stay connected with us for future updates.
