Tattoo Bumps vs Tattoo Blowouts: What’s Normal and What’s Not?

Got fresh ink and noticing some strange texture or unexpected swelling? Before you panic-Google yourself into a spiral, let’s break it down. Two of the most common post-tattoo concerns are tattoo bumps and tattoo blowouts—and they’re very different.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through what they are, why they happen, how to treat them, and when to call your tattoo artist or doctor. Let’s get into it.

What Are Tattoo Bumps?

Tattoo bumps are small, raised areas on or around your tattoo. They’re typically red or skin-colored and can pop up during healing or even on healed tattoos. Don’t worry—most of the time, they’re completely normal and easy to deal with.

Common Causes of Tattoo Bumps:

1. Irritation:
   Fabric rubbing on your tattoo (like tight clothing) or harsh skincare products can irritate the skin, leading to minor inflammation and bumps.

2. Allergic Reactions:
   Red, yellow, or green inks are more likely to trigger allergic responses, especially in sensitive skin. Bumps that itch or blister may be a sign of this.

3. Dryness or Scabbing:
   Over-dry skin or thick scabs can lift slightly, giving the appearance of bumps. This is often part of the natural healing process.

4. Ingrown Hairs:
   If your tattooed area is hairy, shaving before a session can lead to hair growing back awkwardly through healing skin, causing tiny bumps.

5. Heat or Sweat:
   Overheating the area or sweating excessively can trigger blocked pores, especially in summer, leading to “heat rash” style bumps.

How to Treat Tattoo Bumps:

• Keep the area clean with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser.

• Avoid scratching or picking.

• Use a tattoo-safe moisturizer like a glow-enhancing balm to keep the skin soft.

• Avoid sun exposure or hot tubs during healing.

• If allergic symptoms persist (itching, swelling, pus), consult a professional.

Most tattoo bumps resolve themselves in a few days to a couple of weeks. But if they last longer or get worse—don’t play dermatologist. Get it checked out.

What Is a Tattoo Blowout?

Now this one’s a bit different. A tattoo blowout isn’t raised—it’s a blurry, smudged look that appears under the skin, usually in the days or weeks after getting inked.

It’s not an infection or allergy—it’s a mechanical error. Blowouts happen when ink is pushed too deep into the skin and spreads into the surrounding tissue.

What Causes a Tattoo Blowout?

1. Needle Depth:
   If the tattoo needle penetrates past the dermis and into the fat layer, the ink can spread, causing a “fuzzy” or bruised look.

2. Tattooing Too Aggressively:
   Artists who are heavy-handed or rushing through lines can accidentally blow out ink, especially on thin-skinned areas.

3. Body Location:
   Softer, thinner skin—like wrists, ankles, fingers, or the neck—are more prone to blowouts due to less resistance and structure.

4. Poor Aftercare:
   Excessive movement, rubbing, or pressure (like sleeping directly on a new tattoo) can contribute to ink migration.

Can Tattoo Blowouts Be Fixed?

Unfortunately, tattoo blowouts are permanent without intervention—but there are options:

• Camouflage with More Ink:
  A skilled artist can sometimes cover or blend a blowout into new design elements.

• Laser Tattoo Removal:
  If the blowout is small, a few laser sessions may lighten the area enough to make it less noticeable.

• Acceptance (Seriously):
  Some people rock the “blown out” look. If it doesn’t bother you, wear it like a badge.

How to Avoid Both

Here’s your pre-tattoo checklist to minimize the chance of bumps or blowouts:

✅ Choose a reputable artist with experience on your skin tone and body area
✅ Follow proper aftercare (gentle washing, moisturizing, no picking or soaking)
✅ Use tattoo-safe aftercare products (moisturiser, scrub, oil, SPF)
✅ Avoid tight clothes, sweaty sessions, or direct sun on your new ink
✅ Don’t DIY—it’s not a vibe

The Role of Tattoo Aftercare Products

Using the right aftercare routine is essential in avoiding both bumps and post-healing texture.

Our Eternal Tattoo Care Bundle was designed with this in mind. Here’s how it helps:

• 🛁 Tattoo Scrub: Gently exfoliates dead skin cells to keep pores clear

• 💧 Tattoo Oil: Nourishes and soothes irritated areas while keeping the ink vibrant

• ✨ Glow Moisturiser: Keeps your skin soft, hydrated, and bump-free

• ☀️ Tattoo SPF: Shields against UV damage that can cause inflammation and fading

Whether you’ve just been inked or your tattoo is years old, this bundle keeps it looking clean, bold, and bump-free.

Final Thoughts

Tattoo bumps and blowouts are common—but manageable. Knowing the difference can save you a ton of stress and help you take the right steps to heal your ink (and your anxiety).

When in doubt? Talk to your artist. And treat your skin with the same care you gave your design.

Fresh ink deserves proper care.
No pain. Just power.™