What is a blown out tattoo & how can you fix it, fast?

If you're a tattoo enthusiast, you've probably heard of the dreaded phenomenon "tattoo blowout." This frustrating problem occurs when a tattoo is not applied properly, resulting in the ink spreading out underneath the skin and ruining the design. In this blog, we'll take a deep dive into the world of tattoo blow outs, exploring what causes them and how to prevent them from happening to you.

For those of you seeking a quick fix to tattoo blowout, discover how NAAMA's levelled-up LightSense™ laser works wonders on tattoo blowout.

So, without further asides, grab your tattoo aftercare lotion and let's get started.

What is a tattoo blowout?

Tattoo blowout occurs when the tattoo artist presses too hard while applying the tattoo, causing the ink to be injected too deep into the skin, where it spreads out and creates the blurred edges you see with blown-out tattoos.

This can result in an uneven, distorted tattoo that looks very different from the original design, and can be a major source of frustration for tattoo enthusiasts who have been looking forward to their new tattoo for a long time.

So much so that many of our clients dash straight from the tattoo shop to our Great Portland Street studio to remove a brand new tattoo with the LightSense™ laser.

There are several factors that can contribute to the occurrence of a tattoo blowout:

- One of the most common causes is the use of a tattoo machine with too much power, which can cause the ink to be injected too deeply into the skin.

- Inexperienced tattoo artists may also be more likely to cause a tattoo blowout, as they may not have the necessary skill and control to avoid over-injecting the ink.

- Certain tattoo designs are more susceptible to blowouts than others, especially those with fine details or sharp edges.

How does tattoo blowout happen?

Tattoo blowout occurs when your tattoo artist's mistake means they accidentally inject the ink too deep into your skin, causing the design to spread out and become distorted. It's basically the tattoo equivalent of getting a really bad haircut - you were so excited for your new ink, and now you're stuck with a blurry mess.

Do tattoo blowouts go away?

Tattoo blowouts are the bane of every tattoo enthusiast's existence. But don't worry, it's not the end of the world! In some cases, a tattoo blowout may resolve itself as the tattoo heals. But if, after your new tattoo healing, it is still looking funky, you may need to have it removed by a specialist. It's often the best way to get rid of a tattoo blowout.

If you're going down this road, hand in hand with our expert consultants, you probably want to read about how NAAMA's laser originated from Princeton University to safely treat black ink on all Fitzpatrick skin types. You know, if you want the facts.

How common are tattoo blowouts?

It is difficult to say exactly how common tattoo blowouts are, as there is no comprehensive data on the subject. However, tattoo blowouts happen, and many people who get tattoos will experience one at some point in their lives.

The best way to prevent tattoo blowout is to choose an experienced professional tattoo artist, and to carefully research the design and placement of your tattoo to minimise the risk of a blowout.

How do you know if your tattoo is blown out?

You'll know something's up if that piece you were so looking forward to has become blurred, indistinct, or hazy. Tattoo blowout is not hard to spot.

How long does it take for tattoo blowout to appear?

A few days after getting your new ink the signs of tattoo blowout can show up.

What should I do if I have tattoo blowout?

While it can be frustrating and disappointing to have a tattoo blowout, there are steps you can take to try to fix the issue. Here is a guide on what to do if you have a tattoo blowout:

1. Don't panic.

It's important to stay calm and not panic if you have a tattoo blowout. While it may not look as you had hoped, it can usually be fixed with proper care and treatment.

2. Keep the tattoo clean and moisturised.

To prevent infection and promote healing, it's important to keep the tattoo clean and moisturised. Gently wash the tattoo with soap and water and apply a thin layer of unscented lotion or ointment to keep the tattoo hydrated.

3. Avoid picking at the tattoo.

Picking at the tattoo or trying to remove the excess ink can lead to further damage and scarring. It's important to be patient and allow the tattoo to heal properly.

4. If you feel comfortable, you can speak to your tattoo artist.

If the tattoo blowout is severe or you're not satisfied with the results, it's a good idea to consult with your tattoo artist. They may be able to suggest ways to fix the issue or offer to touch up the tattoo at a discounted rate.

5. Try a tattoo blowout cover up.

Once your tattoo has healed, it’s possible to cover it up with another tattoo to hide the blowout. The downside is, even with a highly experienced artist, you’re likely going to need to get a completely different design to your original tattoo as they aren't working with a clear canvas. Cover ups will need to be designed to suit the existing tattoo. Consider laser tattoo removal.

6. If you want it gone, try tattoo removal.

If the tattoo blowout cannot be fixed or you're unhappy with the results, you may want to consider laser tattoo removal. This process uses lasers to break down the ink particles in the tattoo, allowing the body to naturally remove them. It's the only effective method that clears ink safely.

Talk to one of our experts to start your removal journey