Cosmetic Tattoo Melbourne has changed the game in the beauty industry with semi permanent solutions like eyebrow tattoos, lip blush tattoos and permanent eyeliner to enhance your natural beauty. Despite the amazing results, the tattoo healing process can be overwhelming especially for first timers. One of the biggest concerns is the appearance of “missing ink” during healing which is a normal part of the tattooing process. This article will explain why your cosmetic tattoo may look patchy while healing and how to get flawless long term results.
Tattoo Healing Process
The healing process of cosmetic tattooing is a multi step process that requires patience and proper aftercare. From the day of treatment to the complete healing process the tattooed skin goes through many changes. These changes are influenced by skin type, lifestyle habits and aftercare routines. Below is a breakdown of the stages:
1. Day of Treatment
After your procedure your tattoo will look bold, vibrant and darker than expected. This is because of the excess pigment and lymphatic fluid on the surface of the tattooed skin. The initial colour may not be the final result as it changes during the healing process.
2. Scabbing and Flaking (Days 3–7)
In the first few days the tattooed area will start to scab and flake as the body sheds dead skin cells. This stage can look patchy and can be alarming but it’s normal. Flaky skin will cover the ink pigments temporarily and make it look like pigment loss has occurred.
3. Ghosting Stage (Days 7–14)
During this stage the tattooed skin will develop a new layer which will dull the pigment colour. This ghosting is more noticeable in lighter colours like brown which is often used in eyebrow tattooing or ombre powder brows. The pigment retention will improve as the deeper layers of the dermis layer stabilises.
4. Complete Healing Process (Weeks 4–6)
The final colour and design of your cosmetic tattoo will show up as the pigment colour settles in the skin. This stage will vary depending on skin type, oily skin may show softer results than dry skin.
Why Does It Look Like Ink Is Missing?
Missing ink or patches can be due to:
1. Natural Shedding of Dead Skin Cells
Dead skin and excess pigment shed during the healing process. This can look like the ink is missing but it’s still settling into the deeper layers of the skin.
2. New Skin Forming
As your skin regenerates a new layer forms over the tattoo, temporarily dulling the pigment. This is more common in eyebrow tattooing and lip blush tattoo procedures where the tattooed skin exfoliates a lot.
3. Uneven Pigment Retention
Pigment retention depends on your skin type:
- Oily Skin: Pigment will fade faster due to more oil production.
- Dry Skin: Retains pigment better but flaky skin will temporarily obscure the final result.
- Mature Skin: Healing will take longer and clarity of pigment color will be delayed.
4. Excess Lymphatic Fluid
The body’s response to tattooing is to release lymphatic fluid to aid healing. This fluid will mix with pigment and form scabs that will temporarily affect the appearance of the tattoo.
Things That Affect the Healing Process
Missing ink can be affected by many things, including your aftercare, lifestyle and the skill of your cosmetic tattoo artist.
1. Aftercare
Aftercare is key to healing. Follow these:
- Use lukewarm water to gently clean the tattooed area and pat dry with a clean tissue or paper towel.
- Avoid warm water, harsh chemicals and bodies of water like pools or hot tubs during healing.
- Keep the area away from direct sun and excessive sweating as these can affect pigment retention.
2. Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle factors such as smoking, sun exposure and skincare routines play a big role in how well your tattoo heals. Avoid chemical peels, laser treatments and facial treatments until the tattoo is fully healed.
3. Tattoo Artist Skill
An experienced artist or skilled technician will do the tattooing process accurately and minimizes complications. Trusting a professional tattoo artist is key to getting the best results.
Common Myths About Missing Ink
1. Pigment Is Lost Forever
Many people think the lightening of pigment during the ghosting phase is permanent loss of pigment. But this is a normal part of the healing process and pigment will come back in 4-6 weeks.
2. Picking at Scabs Helps
Picking or scratching scabs can cause actual pigment loss and delay healing. Let scabs fall off on their own to protect the ink pigments.
3. Touch Ups Are Unnecessary
A touch up is a normal part of the cosmetic tattoo process. It addresses areas where pigment retention was uneven and makes sure the final result is what you wanted.
Healing Tips
- Don’t Excessively Sweat: Keep the skin dry.
- Stay Out of Direct Sun: Use sun protection to prevent color fade.
- Dry Healing: Let the skin breathe but not over moisturize, keep it hydrated enough not to crack.
- No Harsh Chemicals: Avoid products with alcohol, acids or retinoids until the tattoo is fully healed.
When to Seek Help
While most things during healing are normal, if you experience:
- Redness or swelling that persists.
- Signs of infection like pus or extreme pain.
- Pigment loss that doesn’t go away after the healing process.
Conclusion
Missing ink during the healing phase is a normal and temporary part of cosmetic tattooing. Whether you got eyebrow tattoos, lip blush tattoos or permanent eyeliner, patience and proper aftercare is key to getting perfect long term results. Working with an experienced eyebrow tattoo artist or technician will ensure your tattooing process leads to amazing results.
FAQ
Is my cosmetic tattoo going to look patchy during healing?
Yes, patchiness is normal as dead skin flakes and pigment settles into the deeper layers.
When will I see the final color?
The full healing process takes 4-6 weeks depending on your skin type and aftercare.
Do I need a touch up?
Yes, a touch up is usually needed 6-8 weeks after the initial appointment.
Can my lifestyle habits affect pigment?
Yes, lifestyle habits like sun exposure, smoking and skincare can affect pigment retention.
What to avoid during healing?
Direct sun, excessive sweating, harsh chemicals and picking at scabs.