What’s Actually Happening When You Get a Tattoo?
Your Skin’s Layers
Your skin has three main layers:
Epidermis – The outer layer you see
Dermis – The middle layer where tattoos live
Hypodermis – The deepest layer of fat and connective tissue
Tattooing happens in the dermis. This layer is ideal because it’s stable enough to hold pigment long-term, unlike the epidermis, which constantly sheds and regenerates.
How the Tattoo Machine Works
A modern tattoo machine uses a needle that moves up and down 80–150 times per second. This rapid movement creates micro-punctures in the skin, depositing small drops of pigment into the dermis.
Why Tattoo Ink Stays in Place
Tattoo ink particles are too large for your body to break down, so once they’re placed in the dermis, they stay there. That’s why tattoos last for decades—your body can’t absorb or remove the pigment.
What You’re Feeling During a Tattoo
During your session, you’re feeling:
The needle sensation at the surface of the skin
Your body’s natural response—mild inflammation and swelling
A controlled, localized feeling that many clients describe as more annoying than painful
How Your Artist Controls the Process
An experienced tattoo artist knows:
The right machine voltage to control needle speed
Exactly how deep to go to make the tattoo last without causing blowout
How to avoid overworking the skin to prevent excessive trauma
What’s Blowout and How to Avoid It
Blowout happens when the needle goes too deep into the hypodermis, causing the ink to spread and look blurry.
Prevention comes down to:
Proper depth control by the artist
Using the correct needle and machine setup
Working on still, well-prepped skin
Blowouts are rare with skilled, experienced artists—and sometimes can be camouflaged or corrected if they occur.
Tattoos Are a Partnership Between Artist and Biology
Every tattoo at Ethereal Tattoo Gallery is a balance of artistic vision and precise technique. By understanding what’s happening under your skin, you can feel confident knowing your tattoo is built to last.
📍 If you’re looking for a professional, experienced tattoo shop in Durham, NC, we’re here to make your next tattoo both beautiful and built to stand the test of time.