Tattoo Bubbling Up With Ointment? Here's How to Fix It

You’ve invested time and money into a beautiful piece of art on your skin, and the aftercare phase is all about protecting that investment. One of the most common hurdles is tattoo bubbling, which can be alarming if you don’t know what it is. It’s a direct result of too much moisture, which softens the healing skin and can compromise the final look of your tattoo. Seeing your new tattoo bubbling up with ointment is a sign to pull back and let your skin breathe. This guide will give you the simple, actionable steps to fix the issue and ensure your ink heals sharp and vibrant.

Key Takeaways

Less Is More with Ointment: Tattoo bubbling is your skin’s way of saying it can’t breathe. Prevent it by applying a paper-thin layer of aftercare product and always letting your tattoo air dry completely after washing—trapped moisture is the main culprit.
Correct Bubbling by Drying It Out: If you spot bubbles, stop using ointment immediately. Gently pat the area with a clean paper towel and let it air out for a day. This simple break allows the skin to dry and reset the healing process without damaging your ink.
Know Who to Call and When: Bubbling alone isn’t an emergency, but if it’s paired with spreading redness, pus, or a fever, it’s time to see a doctor. For any other healing concerns, a quick photo and email to your artist will get you expert guidance.

What Is Tattoo Bubbling?

Getting a new tattoo is exciting, but the healing process can sometimes throw you a curveball. One of the most common concerns we see is tattoo bubbling. So, what is it? Simply put, tattoo bubbling happens when the scabs forming over your new ink get too wet. This excess moisture can come from applying too much ointment or not drying your tattoo thoroughly after washing it. Think of it like a scrape on your knee—if you keep a bandage on it while it’s wet, the scab gets soft and gooey instead of forming a dry, protective layer.

The good news is that bubbling is usually not a major crisis. It’s a sign that your aftercare routine needs a small adjustment. Your skin is trying to heal, and our job is to create the perfect environment for it to do so. Following a solid aftercare plan is the best way to avoid issues like bubbling and ensure your tattoo looks incredible for years to come. When your tattoo is healing correctly, it will peel and flake lightly, similar to a sunburn, but bubbling is a different texture entirely.

What Does a Bubbling Tattoo Look Like?

It’s easy to mistake bubbling for a normal part of the healing process, but there are some clear visual cues. A bubbling tattoo doesn’t have the dry, flaky scabs you might expect. Instead, the scabs will look swollen, soft, and almost gooey. They might appear wet or have a blister-like quality, sitting on top of the skin rather than being a tight, dry layer.

This is very different from a healthy healing tattoo, where scabs are typically thin, hard, and crusty before they naturally flake off. If your tattoo looks overly moist and the scabs feel soft to the touch (though you should avoid touching it!), you’re likely dealing with bubbling.

Is It Normal Healing or Bubbling?

While bubbling isn’t a standard part of the healing process, it’s not automatically a sign of infection. However, it does require your immediate attention. Those soft, wet scabs are not providing the same protective barrier as dry ones, which can leave your new tattoo vulnerable to bacteria. If the bubbling causes the scab to fall off prematurely, it exposes the raw skin underneath, increasing the risk of infection and potentially leading to ink loss or scarring.

If you notice bubbling, keep an eye out for other warning signs like spreading redness, yellow or green pus, a foul odor, or a fever. If you see any of these, it’s time to seek medical advice. If it’s just bubbling, a few simple tweaks to your aftercare can get your healing back on track. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to contact your artist—we’re here to help.

Why Do Tattoos Bubble?

Seeing your new tattoo bubble up can be alarming, but it’s usually a sign that your aftercare routine needs a small adjustment. Tattoo bubbling happens when the scabs that form over your fresh ink get too wet. Instead of being a dry, protective layer, the scabs become soft, swollen, and gooey. This is almost always caused by too much moisture, either from applying too much ointment or from not letting the tattoo dry completely after washing. While it’s a common hiccup in the healing process, it’s important to address it so your tattoo heals beautifully and the ink stays put. Let’s look at the most common reasons this happens and what you can do about it.

Are You Using Too Much Ointment?

It’s natural to want to baby your new tattoo, but there can be too much of a good thing. The number one cause of bubbling is the over-application of ointment. A thick layer of aftercare product can trap moisture against your skin and prevent it from breathing. This suffocates the tattoo, softens the scabs, and can even cause the ink to lift out, which is the last thing you want. Your artist at Wild Heart gives you specific aftercare instructions for a reason! Always apply a very thin, breathable layer of ointment—just enough to make it shine, but not so much that it looks goopy. This helps your tattoo heal without prolonging the process.

Other Common Aftercare Mistakes

Besides going heavy on the ointment, a few other habits can lead to a bubbly tattoo. The main one is too much water exposure. For the first few weeks, you need to avoid soaking your new ink completely. That means no baths, hot tubs, or swimming. Even in the shower, try to keep your tattoo out of the direct stream of water. The goal is to keep the area clean without waterlogging it. A compromised scab layer can’t protect your healing skin effectively. If you do notice some bubbling, take a break from your aftercare cream, gently clean the tattoo with unscented soap, and let it air dry thoroughly before applying a much thinner layer of ointment.

How to Prevent Your Tattoo from Bubbling

The best way to deal with a bubbling tattoo is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Don’t worry, this is easier than it sounds. Preventing bubbling comes down to following a consistent aftercare routine that keeps your new tattoo clean, properly moisturized, and protected from too much moisture. A little diligence in the first couple of weeks makes all the difference in how your tattoo heals and looks for years to come. Your artist gives you aftercare instructions for a reason—following them is your best defense.

Apply Ointment the Right Way

When it comes to ointment, less is more. Your tattoo is a wound that needs to breathe to heal properly. Slathering on a thick layer of product can trap moisture against the skin, creating the perfect environment for bubbles to form. Instead, apply a very thin layer of the ointment your artist recommended. After washing and completely air-drying your tattoo, use clean hands to gently rub in the product until it’s no longer shiny. If you’ve applied too much, gently blot the excess with a clean paper towel. Following the specific aftercare instructions from your artist is the most important step you can take.

Find the Perfect Moisture Balance

Finding that “just right” amount of moisture is key. You want to keep the healing skin hydrated, but never wet or saturated. Over-moisturizing is a common mistake that can lead to bubbling and even cause the ink to heal poorly. Before you even think about applying lotion or ointment, make sure your tattoo is completely dry to the touch. Trapping water underneath an occlusive product is a recipe for bubbling. Let your skin air dry for 10 to 15 minutes after cleaning it. This simple step allows excess moisture to evaporate and helps you maintain a healthy healing environment for your new art.

Keep Your New Tattoo Clean and Protected

Keeping your tattoo clean is non-negotiable, but you also have to protect it from getting waterlogged. During showers, do your best to keep the tattoo out of the direct stream of water. You should also avoid baths, swimming pools, hot tubs, and oceans for at least two to three weeks. Soaking your new tattoo can introduce bacteria and cause major irritation and bubbling. When you’re done washing, don’t rub the area with a towel. Instead, gently pat it dry with a clean, disposable paper towel. Remember, each of our artists provides detailed guidance tailored to your tattoo, so listen to their advice for the best results.

What to Do If Your Tattoo Is Bubbling

Seeing your new tattoo bubble up can be alarming, but don’t panic. This is a common healing issue that’s almost always fixable at home. Bubbling happens when too much moisture gets trapped under the healing layers of skin, usually from applying too much ointment or from over-saturating the area with water. The scabs become soft and gooey, creating a bubbling effect.

The good news is that you can typically resolve this by making a few simple adjustments to your aftercare routine. The key is to gently dry out the area and allow your skin to breathe. By taking a few careful steps, you can get your tattoo’s healing process back on track without damaging the final design. Remember, your skin is working hard to heal, and sometimes it just needs a little help finding the right balance. If you ever feel unsure, our team of artists is always here to guide you.

First Steps to Take

The moment you notice bubbling, your immediate goal is to reduce moisture. First, stop applying any ointment or lotion to the area. Your tattoo needs a chance to air out and dry. If the area looks wet, you can gently blot it with a clean, disposable paper towel—don’t rub it. It’s also crucial that you resist any urge to pick at or peel the bubbly scabs. This can pull ink out and lead to scarring. Let the tattoo breathe for a few hours. This simple step allows the excess moisture to evaporate, which is the first and most important part of correcting the problem.

Adjust Your Aftercare Routine

Bubbling is a clear sign that your aftercare routine needs a small tweak. The main fix is to avoid over-saturating your tattoo. While quick showers are fine, you should avoid soaking in a bath or going swimming until your tattoo is fully healed. When you do wash your tattoo, be gentle and quick. Afterward, pat it completely dry with a clean paper towel before you even think about applying ointment. When you do apply aftercare products, use them sparingly. A very thin, breathable layer is all you need. Following the specific aftercare instructions from your artist is the best way to prevent these issues from happening in the first place.

Know When to Stop Using Ointment

If your tattoo is bubbling, it’s best to take a temporary break from your ointment. Give your tattoo a full day without any lotion or balm. This pause allows the skin to dry out completely and lets the scabs harden properly. Trapping a bubbling tattoo under a thick layer of ointment will only make the problem worse. After about 24 hours, you can re-evaluate. If the area looks dry and the scabs have firmed up, you can begin applying a very thin layer of ointment again. This short break is often all it takes to reset the healing process and get your tattoo back on the right path.

Choose the Right Aftercare Products

Picking the right aftercare product is just as crucial as keeping your new tattoo clean. Your skin is an open wound, and what you put on it can make or break the healing process. The goal is to find a product that keeps your tattoo lightly moisturized without suffocating it. Too much heavy ointment can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to the bubbling we’re trying to avoid. Too little, and your skin can get overly dry, scabby, and cracked.

Think of it like this: you want your skin to breathe. The right product will support your body’s natural healing abilities, not hinder them. While every artist might have their favorite brand, the core principles are the same. We always provide detailed aftercare instructions, but understanding why certain products work better than others will help you make the best choices for your new ink. You can always find our shop’s specific aftercare guidelines on our info page if you need a refresher. The key is to use a light touch and listen to your skin.

Ointments We Recommend (and Why)

For the first few days, a specialized tattoo ointment is your best friend. The trick is to use a very, very thin layer—just enough to make the tattoo shine slightly, but not so much that it looks greasy or wet. Rub it in gently until it’s fully absorbed. After you’ve rubbed it in, you can even dab any excess off with a clean paper towel. The skin should feel soft, not slick. This approach keeps the area hydrated and protected while still allowing it to get the air it needs to heal properly. Our team of artists trusts products that are specifically formulated for tattoos because they are designed to be breathable and gentle on traumatized skin.

Products to Skip While Healing

This is a big one: stay away from petroleum-based products like Vaseline, Aquaphor, or A&D ointment. While these are great for chapped lips, they are far too thick and heavy for a healing tattoo. They create a waterproof barrier that clogs your pores and traps moisture and bacteria against your skin. This is a perfect recipe for tattoo bubbling, which can cause scabs to get gooey and fall off too early, pulling ink out with them. It can also lead to skin irritation or even an infection. Stick to products that are light, breathable, and designed for healing tattoos. Your ink will thank you for it.

When to Switch to an Unscented Lotion

After the first two or three days, your tattoo will start to peel and flake, much like a sunburn. This is the signal to switch from an ointment to a gentle, water-based, and completely unscented lotion. Apply a thin layer one to two times a day to keep the skin from getting too dry or itchy. If you notice any bubbling before this stage, stop using ointment immediately. Let the tattoo air out and dry completely. Once the bubbling has subsided, you can resume your aftercare with a much lighter application of lotion. If you’re ever worried about how your tattoo is healing, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

Is It Infected or Just Healing?

It’s completely normal to be a little anxious about your new tattoo. You’re watching it closely, and every little change can feel like a big deal. The good news is that most of the time, what you’re seeing is just a standard part of the healing process. However, it’s smart to know the difference between a tattoo that’s healing beautifully and one that needs a little extra help—or even a doctor’s attention. While bubbling on its own isn’t usually an infection, it can create an environment where one could develop. Knowing the warning signs will help you stay calm and take the right steps if something seems off.

Warning Signs of an Infection

Your body is working hard to heal, so some redness and tenderness are expected. An infection, however, goes beyond typical healing discomfort. Pay close attention if you notice any of these key signs of infection: severe or worsening pain, redness that spreads far beyond the tattoo lines, or a hot feeling to the touch. A clear sign something is wrong is pus draining from the area or the appearance of open sores. If you develop a fever or chills, it’s a signal that your body is fighting something more serious, and you should seek medical attention right away.

How Bubbling Can Affect Your Final Tattoo

Think of the initial healing stage as your body forming a natural, protective shield over your new art. Bubbling can disrupt this. When the skin gets too moist, it can cause the delicate top layer and any scabs to lift away prematurely. This is different from normal scabbing, which is dry and flaky; bubbles are soft and fluid-filled. If they pop or get peeled off, they can take ink with them, leading to a patchy or faded final result. More importantly, this breaks that protective barrier, leaving your tattoo vulnerable to bacteria and potential infection.

Know the Health Risks

Let’s be clear: tattoo infections are not very common, but they are serious when they happen. They can be caused by a number of factors, including contaminated equipment or poor aftercare. This is why we are so committed to maintaining a sterile environment and providing clear aftercare instructions at our Greenpoint, Brooklyn shop. Ignoring the signs of an infection can lead to significant skin problems and, in rare cases, more severe health issues. Your health is the top priority. If you suspect an infection, it’s always better to be safe and get it checked out by a medical professional.

When to Call Your Artist or a Doctor

First, take a breath. It’s completely normal to feel a little anxious when your new tattoo does something unexpected. The most important thing is to listen to your body and not ignore your concerns. Your artist is your first line of defense for any healing questions. We’ve seen it all, and we’re here to guide you through the process. If you’re worried about bubbling or any other part of the healing stage, please don’t hesitate to contact the shop. We can look at the tattoo and give you specific advice.

However, some symptoms are non-negotiable signs that you need to see a doctor. While bubbling on its own is usually a moisture issue, it can become a problem if accompanied by other symptoms. Watch for clear signs of an infection, which include spreading redness, swelling, skin that feels hot to the touch, pus or drainage, and a foul odor. If you experience any of these, especially with a fever or body aches, you should seek medical attention right away. Your health is the absolute priority, and a doctor can determine if you need antibiotics or other medical treatment. Don’t wait and hope it gets better on its own.

What to Ask Your Tattoo Artist

When you reach out, being clear about what’s happening will help your artist give you the best advice. You can call the shop or send an email with a clear, well-lit photo of the area. Be ready to describe your aftercare routine in detail: what product you’re using, how much you’re applying, and how often you’re washing the tattoo.

Here are a few good questions to start with:

“I’m seeing some bubbling on my new tattoo. Can you take a look and let me know if I should adjust my aftercare?”
“Based on this photo, do you think I’m using too much ointment?”
“Should I stop using my current aftercare product for a while?”

Remember, our Wild Heart artists provide specific aftercare instructions because they know what works best for their style of tattooing and for you.

What to Expect When You Ask for Help

When you ask for help with a bubbling tattoo, your artist will likely give you a few simple instructions to correct the issue. The most common advice is to immediately stop applying any ointments or lotions. The goal is to let the tattoo breathe and dry out, since excess moisture is what causes the bubbling in the first place.

Your artist will probably tell you to gently wash the tattoo with unscented soap and water, then pat it completely dry with a clean paper towel. From there, you’ll let it air out. While bubbling itself isn’t an infection, it can soften the scabs and make your skin more vulnerable. By letting the area dry, you help the protective layer reform properly. We’re always here to provide aftercare guidance and ensure your tattoo heals beautifully.

Care for Your Tattoo for Years to Come

Once your tattoo is fully healed, the journey isn’t over. Think of long-term care as the best way to protect the investment you’ve made in your body art. The initial healing phase is intense, but how you treat your skin for years to come will determine how sharp, bright, and beautiful your tattoo remains. The most important rule is to always follow the specific aftercare instructions your artist gives you. They tattooed you, they know the work, and their advice is tailored to your specific piece.

Great long-term care is pretty simple and mostly involves common sense skin health. Protecting your tattoo from the sun, keeping your skin hydrated, and avoiding harsh chemicals will keep it looking its best. A tattoo is a living part of you, and as your skin changes over time, so will your ink. By giving it a little consistent attention, you ensure it ages gracefully right along with you. This ongoing care prevents fading and keeps the lines looking crisp for decades. It’s less about intensive routines and more about building small, healthy habits that benefit both your skin and your art. For a refresher on our general advice, you can always check our info page.

Tips for Fully Healed Tattoos

After the scabs and flakes are gone, your tattoo enters a new phase. To keep it looking crisp, avoid soaking it for long periods, like in a bath or pool, as excessive water exposure can soften the skin and dull the ink over time. When you moisturize, use a simple, unscented lotion and apply a thin layer—just enough to keep the skin healthy, not greasy. It’s also smart to keep an eye on your tattoo. If you notice any changes in texture or color down the road, don’t hesitate to reach out to your artist.

Protect Your Ink from Damage

The aftercare mistakes you make early on can have lasting consequences. For instance, tattoo bubbling happens when too much moisture gets trapped under a healing scab, which can pull the ink out and lead to patchiness or scarring. This is why we stress proper aftercare so much! The biggest long-term threat to your ink, however, is the sun. UV rays break down the pigment in your tattoo, causing it to fade and blur. Always apply a high-SPF sunscreen to your healed tattoos before you head outside. This single step will do more to protect your ink than almost anything else.

Keep Your Tattoo Looking Bright and Bold

A vibrant tattoo starts with a skilled artist, but it’s maintained by you. Just as over-moisturizing can harm a new tattoo, using too much lotion on healed ink can clog pores and make the area look dull. A light touch is all you need. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water also keeps your skin—and your tattoo—looking healthy and bright. Ultimately, a tattoo will only look as good as the skin it’s on. When you get work from one of our talented artists, you’re getting a piece of art designed to last a lifetime, and a little care will ensure it does.

Frequently Asked Questions

You say to use a “thin layer” of ointment. What does that actually look like? This is a great question because it’s the step people most often get wrong. After washing and completely drying your tattoo, apply a few small dots of ointment over the area. Gently rub them in until they disappear, just like you would with a regular body lotion. The goal is for the skin to have a subtle satin sheen, not a thick, greasy, or wet appearance. If it looks shiny or goopy, you’ve used too much. Simply take a clean paper towel and gently blot the excess away.

I think my tattoo is bubbling. What’s the very first thing I should do? First, don’t panic—this is usually easy to fix. The very first thing you should do is stop adding moisture. That means no more ointment or lotion for at least 24 hours. Gently wash the area with unscented soap, pat it completely dry with a paper towel, and then let it air out. The goal is to give the soft, gooey scabs a chance to dry and harden properly. Resist the urge to pick at them, as this can cause damage.

Will tattoo bubbling permanently damage my tattoo? Bubbling itself doesn’t have to cause permanent damage, but how you handle it is critical. The real danger comes from the soft scabs getting pulled off too early, which can lift the ink out and lead to a patchy or faded final result. If you follow the right steps by letting the area dry out and allowing the scabs to harden and fall off naturally, your tattoo will most likely heal perfectly fine without any lasting issues.

How can I tell if my bubbling tattoo is getting infected? Bubbling is a moisture problem, not an infection. An infection will have much more aggressive symptoms. Look for redness that spreads far beyond the lines of your tattoo, swelling that doesn’t go down, or skin that feels hot to the touch. The biggest red flags are yellow or green pus, a foul smell, or developing a fever. If you only have soft, wet-looking scabs, it’s just bubbling. If you have any of those other signs, it’s time to see a doctor.

Is it okay to let my bubbling tattoo dry out completely, or will that cause cracking? Yes, letting a bubbling tattoo dry out is exactly what you should do. This is a temporary corrective measure to fix the moisture imbalance. Giving it a break from ointment for a day allows the soggy scabs to firm up and create the protective layer your skin needs. Once the bubbling has subsided and the area looks dry, you can resume your aftercare by applying a very light layer of unscented lotion to prevent it from getting too dry and cracking.

Tattoo Bubbling with Ointment: Is It Okay?