What Is the Average Time It Takes for a Tattoo to Heal?
Getting a tattoo is something that many people do, and once you do, you'll want to show it off. It may take longer to heal than you think.
The healing process is broken down into stages, depending on its size, where it is on the body, and your lifestyle choices. This article talks about tattoo healing stages, how long each step takes, and what signs your tattoo isn't healing right.
Going Over a Tattoo’s Healing Stages
The four stages of tattoo healing are the following:
The first stage lasts from the first to the sixth day. At the end of the first week, a scab will form over the tattooed area. These scabs usually disappear between the 13th and 21st days.
The second stage of healing lasts from the seventh to the 13th day. By now, your scabs will turn dark, become hard, and fall off naturally. At the end of the second week, the tattooed area will look like it has sunburn.
The third stage of healing lasts from the 14th day to the 21st day. The skin will begin to harden, and the tattoo lines will become clearer. Additionally, the skin will have a waxy look to it.
The fourth stage of healing lasts from the 22nd day on. The tattooed area will be scab-free and will resemble the skin around it. Keep in mind that your tattoo may still be tender to the touch.
Understanding the Length of Time Healing Takes
Now that we've discussed a tattoo’s healing stages, let's talk about how long each stage takes. A good rule of thumb is that a standard tattoo should take a month to heal. However, this can vary from case to case
The healing will differ depending on the person and how long you wait between sessions. A significant factor is the size of the tattoo. It will take longer than a small tattoo if it's larger because it has more to heal.
The location of the tattoo is something else to consider. If it's on your back, you can't check on it as often as you can check on a small tattoo on your ankle. That's why it can take longer.
Other things you do will also affect the healing time. If you contact the tattoo, it can delay your healing. If you sweat regularly from exercise or wash the tattoo too often, it will slow your healing process.
Watching Out for Problems During the Healing Process
The healing process isn't always smooth. You may have different problems develop along the way, and some may indicate that your tattoo isn't healing right. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should seek medical help right away:
Your tattoo is red and inflamed
Your tattoo is itchy
Your tattoo is oozing fluid, especially pus
Your tattoo is scabbing over
You notice that something is growing in the tattoo
You notice discoloration in the tattoo
You notice a change in the texture of the tattoo
Final Words
Patience is a critical attribute for a tattoo's successful healing. It can be a long process, but you'll be able to enjoy your new tattoo when it's done healing.
Whatever the reason, if you're worried about your tattoo not healing right, it's important to seek medical help.
Do you want to get a custom tattoo in Denver anytime soon? If you do, Certified Tattoo is a multi-award-winning tattoo workshop with over 30 exceptional artists spread over three distinct sites. Contact us today to book a tattoo consultation.