So, your tattoo artist should advise you to apply a small amount of lotion. Pat it into your tattoo, the use a paper towel to very gently pat over it again – this will remove any excess lotion that your skin can’t absorb.

Now, the important thing to note. Apply lotion won’t prevent peeling. Peeling is your body’s natural response, and no amount of lotion will stop it from happening. Applying a small amount of lotion will keep the skin soft and prevent the skin from becoming brittle, which makes the peeling process more comfortable. Lotion can also soothe the itchy hot sensation.

So, why is your tattoo peeling off when you apply lotion? The answer is because that’s how your body heals! Whether you apply lotion or not, your tattoo will peel anyway. So why not follow the correct aftercare instructions and moisturize your tatt to help it heal.

Tattoo Peeling Before and After

Okay, this meme is pretty good! When you first get your tattoo, it looks so fresh and vibrant. Often the skin is slightly raised where the needle has imbedded ink, especially for fine line tattoo designs. But that doesn’t last. Over the next couple of weeks, your tattoo will go through stages of oozing, scabbing, and peeling as your body heals over the ink.

You can’t avoid this healing process and you really shouldn’t hinder it, as this could alter the tattoo design!

Generally, your tattoo will have a white cast over it during the peeling stage, but afterwards it will be as bright and vibrant as when you first got inked. Although the skin won’t be raised, some colors will appear brighter than before.

On the other hand, you might notice some small patches where the ink hasn’t taken. If this is the case with your tattoo, you need to book a touch-up session.

Let’s take a look at some before and after photos to find out what’s in store for your peeling tattoo.