How can i tell if i have a thin scab or scar on my tattoo?

It's probably a reaction to what you were and are putting on it. First of all A&D isn't the best idea. It's the oldschool thing tattoo artists suggested to use. That's something that's been changing. Your skin need to be able to "breathe" in able for it to heal. Putting ointments on it keep air from getting to it which is definitely not good. Stop using that lotion. Buy some unscented Lubriderm. It's in a white & light blue bottle. The best thing to do though, is to visit your artist and see what they think.