Today we want to talk about a very controversial topic: tattoo ink spreading. To do this, we must distinguish between blowout and natural spreading over time.
In every article, we emphasize the importance of choosing a good tattoo studio in Madrid. In today’s post, you’ll understand a little better why we are so persistent about this topic.
What is tattoo ink spreading? Is it the same as a blowout?
The first thing to clarify is that no, they are not the same:
Natural spreading of ink over time is one thing, and unwanted spreading due to poor execution is another.
Blowouts can appear immediately or after years. It is normal for older tattoos to spread and become blurry, and even change tone.
It is important to be open to the possibility that the design we want may not be achievable, at least not in the size or shape we desire. For this, we have an expert team that can retouch designs to make them look perfect and maintain their fresh appearance even years later.
A great deal of responsibility is also necessary during the first days and the healing process in general, as it is key to avoiding any future problems.
Our recommendation is always to go to a tattoo studio specialized in the style you want, with competent and highly trustworthy artists, that complies with minimum sanitary standards.
What about fine line tattoos?
You’ve probably heard that fine line tattoos and micro-realism tattoos spread over time like a blowout. You should know that this is not entirely true.
It is also said that this happens because the artist uses an inappropriate or too thick needle for a fine design. The reality is that needle thickness is not that important.
Ink spreading occurs when the artist does not apply it correctly:
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Applying too much pressure injects the ink beyond the upper layer of the skin into the lower layer.
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In this area, the ink moves beyond the superficial design lines, creating a blurry effect.
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Applying too much pressure, stretching the skin, or pushing the needle aggressively can create spaces in the surrounding tissue where the ink settles outside the main line.
Other factors also influence it:
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The angle at which the machine is held while tattooing, which can disperse ink into adjacent tissue.
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The area being tattooed, as some areas are more prone to blowouts, such as wrists, ankles, elbows, hands, etc.
We must understand that skin is not paper; it is a living surface that changes over time. In addition to the importance of the design we choose, it is necessary to consider that areas subject to constant movement and stretching, friction from clothing and footwear, or sweat can hinder the healing process. If the scab keeps opening, ink spreading can occur beyond the intended design limits.