Tattoo Healing Timeline
The healing time for a tattoo can range from two to four weeks, depending on the size and location of the tattoo. Individual healing times may vary based on skin type and overall health of the tattoo wearer. If this is your first tattoo, here’s what you can expect during the healing process.
Day 1 (after bandage removal):
After the bandage is removed, you may notice some fluid oozing from the tattoo. This is normal – it’s just plasma and some extra ink. Clean and dry the tattoo as directed. The tattoo may also feel sore and slightly warm to the touch.
Days 2 to 3:
During these days, your tattoo may look dull and cloudy as your skin heals and new skin starts to form. Excess ink and plasma may still ooze from your skin.
Days 4 to 6:
The redness should start to fade, and light new skin will be noticeable over the tattoo. If scabs form, do not pick at them as it can cause scarring and damage your tattoo.
Days 7 to 14:
Any scabs that have formed will have hardened, and they will begin to flake off. Do not pick at or try to pull them off. Your tattoo may feel very itchy during this time. Use a moisturizer to relieve the itch. If the tattoo is still red and swollen at this point, seek advice from your tattoo artist or a doctor as it might be an irritation or infection.
Tattoo Care After 2 Weeks (Days 15 to 30):
This is the last stage of the healing process. Most, if not all, of the scabs will have fallen off by this point. If your tattoo looks dry and dull, continue to moisturize to rehydrate the skin. It may take another month or two for the lower layers of skin to completely heal, at which point the tattoo should look as bright and vivid as expected, and as the artist intended.