A lot of factors could contribute to the scabbing. How often were you washing it and with what kind of soap? You also have to remember that a tattoo is an open wound and should be treated as so. I am covered in tattoos and I've only had one scab over and lose ink. Here is my routine...I was my tattoo with antibacterial, non-scented, soap. I use Aquafor for the first 3 days. Not a lot at a time but enough to keep the tattoo from being dry. After those three days I move to Jergens Ultra Healing (non scented) lotion for the remainder of the healing period.
Also, some colors are harder to keep in the skin than others. Hope this helps! :)