Tattoo and scars – it’s an interesting topic. When you first get your tattoo, the area may be a little red, swollen, and even raised where strong black lines cut across your skin. But will the raised texture last? And what should you do if scars emerge after the tattoo has healed?

This article covers tattoo scars in general, from what they are and what causes them, to how to fix the problem. There are some quick FAQs at the end too if you’re in a rush.

Be warned, some of the photos in this article show infected tattoos. It’s graphic and not a pretty picture!

Tattoo Scarring: What Is It?

Tattoo scarring refers to any scar that occurs due to the tattoo process – depending on the type of scar, it may become visible very quickly or take years to develop.

This is different to tattooing over scars and scars caused by laser tattoo removal. If you’re interested in either of these topics, scroll down our guide to the end to learn more.

There are several types of tattoo scarring:

• Raised line scars, AKA hypertrophic scars. These scars are caused during the healing process and are the typical, raised, and thick scars that you are accustomed to. This is also the type of scar you’d receive if you cut yourself any other way.
• Growing bulbous scars, AKA keloid scars. These scars can be triggered by any kind of skin wound, including a tattoo. They look like rubbery spots that grow and spread, sometimes wider than the tattoo area itself. If you have a keloid scar, it’s wise to seek medical treatment.

In many cases, tattoo scars can be avoided by only working with proficient, professional, and responsible tattoo artists. You also need to do your part to keep the tattoo healthy during the aftercare process.

If you are inked by a great artist and follow the aftercare instructions closely, then you’re very unlikely to get a tattoo scar. Don’t let the pictures and horror stories on Reddit put you off. Body art is beautiful and so long as you’re careful, your chances of scarring are minimal.