You’ll be excited to show off your new tattoo after you make the decision. However, it might take longer for it to heal fully.
The healing process is divided into four stages. The time it takes for the wounds to heal will vary depending on their size, location on your body, and habits.
This article will discuss the stages of tattoo healing and how long it takes. It will also explain signs indicating that your tattoo isn’t healing properly.
How long does a tattoo take to heal?
The outer layer of your skin, which is the part you can see after getting a tattoo, will usually heal in 2 to 3 weeks. Although it may feel and look healed, you might be tempted not to take the aftercare as seriously as possible. It can take up to 6 months for the skin beneath a tattoo to heal completely.
It takes longer for skin to heal from larger tattoos.
Stages of Tattoo Healing
The stages of Tattoo Healing can generally be divided into four stages. The care you give your tattoo depends on which stage it is.
Week 1
From day 1 to day 6, the first stage is completed. The first stage is where your new tattoo is bandaged. After that, it’s considered an open wound. You may feel redness, swelling, inflammation, burning sensations, or slight reddening of the injury.
Week 2
You may feel itching or flaking during this stage. Flaky skin is not something to worry about. It’s a natural reaction, and the ink will remain intact even though it appears that some of it are coming off.
Avoid picking at the scabs and scratching them. A doctor or tattoo artist may recommend a moisturizer to keep the skin around the tattoo hydrated. It can also help with itching.
Weeks 3 & 4
The itchiness and dryness may start to fade. It may be a sign that your tattoo is infected. Although your tattoo might appear duller than expected, a layer of skin has likely been formed.
The tattoo will then naturally peel off. Avoid picking or scratching, as this could cause scarring.
Months 2-6
Your tattoo should look completely healed by now. However, it is a good idea to continue with aftercare. It would be best if you kept your tattoo clean and hydrated.
How can you reduce healing time?
While everyone wants their tattoos to heal quickly, the truth is that they require time and care. You can speed up the healing process by doing certain things.
Cover tattoos with clothing
Your tattoo can fade from sunlight. Fresh tattoos are particularly sensitive. Cover the tattoo with loose clothing like long sleeves and pants when you’re out in the sun. After the tattoo is fully healed, do not apply sunscreen.
After you have removed the initial dressing, don’t re-bandage.
The tattoo must breathe. Once you have removed the original bandage, it is best not to cover it. Usually, the artist will wrap it in clear plastic or surgical wrap. Wrapping it can lead to excess moisture and lack of oxygen, leading to scabbing or slow healing.
Clean daily
Use lukewarm water, not hot. This could cause the ink to leak inward and may damage the skin.
Make sure you wash your hands with antibacterial soap before you start. Next, apply water to the tattoo. Follow with fragrance-free, alcohol-free soap. Finally, dry the tattoo with a towel or let it air dry.
Use ointment
You need air for your tattoo to heal. It’s best to avoid heavy products such as Vaseline unless recommended by your artist.
Your artist may recommend using products with lanolin and petroleum for the first few days. You can switch to a lighter, more fragrance-free aftercare lotion or pure coconut oils.
