When you get a new tattoo and notice a layer of shine developing on it, you might think, “Why is my tattoo shiny?” This can actually seem quite alarming to first-time tattooers. However, the shiny sheen on your tattoo is a common result of the intricate healing process and tattoo aftercare. During the initial healing phase, scabs form over the new tattoo, which eventually peel off to reveal the fresh layers of regenerated skin underneath. This fresh skin, along with the constant application of tattoo ointments and moisturizers, can lead to the common shine on your tattoo, also known as “onion skin.” This is a normal part of the healing phase that contributes to the longevity and vibrancy of your tattoo and does not call for any extreme measures or concerns. Keep scrolling as we break down this process in detail to make your tattoo healing journey a smoother one.
Why is my tattoo shiny?
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The shine on the fresh tattoo is an integral part of the healing phase of the tattoo and is known as renewed skin. Tattoos are basically wounds that go through the natural healing process. This causes the formation of scabs on the tattooed skin, which peel off and make way for fresh, shiny skin. But this whole process consists of a few steps. Let us understand in the section below what exactly happens to the skin during the process.
What happens to my skin while the tattoo heals?
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Once the fresh tattoo is tattooed, the healing process begins. You can expect some scabbing from the first week. These scabs on the tattoo dry up and fall off naturally in the second or third week, leaving a shiny layer on your tattoo, known as the onion skin phase. This effect is a result of the smooth texture of the healed skin and the vibrancy of the tattoo ink underneath. From day one through three and four, the new tattoo expels excess blood, plasma, and ink from the wound. And once the protective film is removed, the proper healing phase begins.
Quick tip
Always protect the tattoo from sun exposure during the healing phase, especially after the scabs have fallen off. Use a mineral sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and moisturizing ingredients such as vitamin E and shea butter.
Although a shiny tattoo is normal, it can also come with certain concerns. Let’s read more about it below.
Concerns about shiny tattoos
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If your tattoo is glowing longer than normal, it could be due to the following factors.
Excessive shine on the skin may not be a cause of a skin infection. However, sometimes it can be an early indication of possible redness, inflammation and discharge.
People with sensitive skin often experience an allergic reaction. This can lead to itching, redness, swelling and a shiny layer on the skin.
Excessive use of healing products
Using too many healing products, such as ointments, balms, and moisturizers, can cause the tattoo to absorb too much moisture, making it appear shiny.
Prolonged shine can also indicate poor healing and cause the tattoo color to fade prematurely.
If you find yourself with a shiny tattoo, there are certain steps you can take to speed up the healing process while protecting the colors. Read on to learn more.
What should I do if my tattoo starts to shine?
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There are a number of steps you can take if you notice your tattoo becoming shiny.
Use a fragrance-free, mild soap to clean the tattoo. Do not over-moisturize the tattoo and apply only a thin layer of healing ointment or tattoo balm. Avoid direct sun exposure and protect the tattoo to prevent the color from fading.
Another question that may come to mind during this process is how long does the shine last and what period of time is considered normal and healthy. Read more about that below.
How long does the “Onion Tattoo Skin” phase last during the healing process?
This shiny phase can last for about 2-4 weeks, but will eventually lead to a matte yet vibrant piece of body art once it has fully healed. Once the shiny phase is over, you may notice that your new tattoo looks slightly faded and cloudy, which is a healthy sign that your skin is returning to its normal state.
A blogger shares his personal experience with getting a tattoo and the whole healing phase. He reports in his blog post and also shares some tips: “The bepanthen should be used 3-4 times a day for 2 weeks. Your tattoo is not 100% healed until after 2 weeks, plus or minus a few days. You know it’s healed when it stops flaking and the skin starts to shine, the bright vibrant colors will also start to dull a bit, but don’t worry about that (i).”
Quick tip
Choose loose cotton clothing during and after tattooing and let your fresh tattoo breathe. This will help with optimal and fast recovery.
Now you might be wondering what to expect after the healing time is over. To understand it better, let’s look at the section below.
What to Expect After Your Tattoo Heals
Once the tattoo passes the onion skin stage, which indicates that the tattoo is fully healed, you can expect a few things:
The excessive discomfort or pain you initially experience during the healing phase will decrease. The tattoo will have a smooth texture without any scabs. The design will look like your normal skin, without any unnecessary shine.
These are the usual signs of optimal healing. However, you can always consult your professional tattoo artist if you are not satisfied with the result and still have minor concerns.
Everyone can feel a little perplexed after seeing a shiny layer on their new tattoo, but the reassuring thing is that this phase is nothing to worry about. It is a normal and crucial part of the tattoo healing process. The onion skin phase of the tattoo occurs after the flaking and shedding of the scabs, during which the skin regenerates and gives off a slightly shiny appearance. But again, too much of everything is not ideal either. Therefore, keep a close eye on the healing process, watch out for signs of skin infection and follow a good care routine for a vibrant tattoo design and the desired result.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my tattoo is still shiny after 4 months?
Although it can take 4-6 months for a tattoo to fully heal, if you notice that your tattoo is still shiny, it is best to consult your tattoo artist or a dermatologist. They can discuss any potential concerns.
What is the silver skin phase of a tattoo?
The second week after getting a new tattoo is often called the silver skin phase. During this phase, the skin forms natural scabs on the tattooed area, giving it a slightly shiny, silvery appearance.
Key Points
A shiny tattoo is part of the natural healing process of a tattoo and occurs after the shedding of scabs. The regeneration of skin cells and tissues causes such a result and makes the tattoo look shiny. Long-lasting shine can cause concerns, such as the risk of infection, uneven healing, color fading and excessive hydration. The shiny layer on the tattoo is also called onion skin.
For those new to tattooing, the healing process can seem a little confusing. So watch the video below, which goes into detail about the entire healing phase and explains when you can expect your tattoo to look shiny.
Personal experience: Source
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Brik Rangel is a highly skilled tattoo artist with 12 years of experience in the field. She specializes in transformative tattoo makeovers and cover-ups. After honing her craft in São Paulo, Brazil, she now works as a tattoo artist and manager at Manhattan Tattoos in New York and as a tattoo artist at Divine Tattoos in New Jersey.
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