Much about tattoos focus too much on the final product and seldom the healing process before it. However, before you walk around town with your new ink, it's critical to think about proper tattoo aftercare since the healing process could take 1-6 months.

The healing timeline depends on the tattoo's size, color saturation, and location, with highly saturated and below-the-heart tattoos generally taking longer.

This article will go through the tattoo healing stages and the best aftercare techniques to keep it clean and heal faster.

Stages of tattoo healing

Tattoos move through stages that are both natural and necessary for the healing process. Here is a detailed timeline of the healing process:

Week One: Redness

The initial stage is characterized by redness. This starts right after your tattoo is done and can linger for up to a week. 

It is typical for your tattoo to appear reddish during this stage, and you may even see ink seeping out of the tattoo. If the "oozing" persists after a week, consult a doctor.

Week Two: Itchiness

Itching and flaking may occur at this time. Flaky skin is not a cause for concern; it is a natural reaction, and the ink will remain intact even if some of it appears to be peeling.

Avoid scratching or picking at scabs. A tattoo artist or doctor-recommended moisturizer can keep the skin around the tattoo moisturized and may relieve irritation.

Week Three: Peeling

Your tattoo will begin to peel, much like a scab. This usually happens after the second week. Because your body believes your tattoo has been injured, it is attempting to repair the skin. Don't worry; the tattoo won't fall off.

Week 4: Aftercare

The itching should subside as your tattoo begins to dry off. If it does not, and the redness remains, your tattoo might be infected. At this point, your tattoo may seem less vivid than the first week. However, this is only a temporary state caused by the thick formation of dry skin layers over your tattoo.

This will exfoliate naturally, revealing the vibrant tattoo. Resist the temptation to pick or scrape since this might result in scars and affect your tattoo's aesthetic.

Months 2–6: Healing

Itching and redness should have decreased by this time, and your tattoo should appear healed, but it's a good idea to keep up with aftercare.

How to Help Your Tattoo Heal Faster

Everyone wants their tattoo to heal quickly, but it takes time and patience, just like any wound. You may do certain things to help the healing process along.

Clean it Daily

Clean your tattoo twice daily using lukewarm — not hot, which may irritate the skin or open the pores, causing the ink to pull inward — sterile water.

Before you begin, use an antibacterial soap to clean your hands thoroughly. 

Moisturize

Apply a moisturizer to your skin after you've washed it. Moisturizing your skin helps to keep flaking and redness at bay. When your skin is irritated, moisturizer will be your greatest friend.

Your tattoo artist may provide you with an ointment, but you may also purchase one at any store. 

Don't Pick on the Scab

Scabbing is a normal part of the healing process; however, picking or scratching at the scab can delay the healing process and may compromise the integrity of the tattoo or result in scarring.

Put on Sun Screen

Keep your tattoo covered with sunscreen or sun-protective clothes during the first several months after having it done. Direct sunlight can cause your tattoo to fade, which is irreversible.

Conclusion

The tattoo healing procedure is pretty simple. Swelling, discomfort, and oozing usually subside by day three, then itching and peeling for the next few weeks. For the first month, your tattoo will appear darker and duller than usual. Follow your dermatologist's or tattoo artist's recommended course of treatment to avoid infection and get a better tattoo outcome.

If you're looking for the best tattoo artists in Colorado, Certified Tattoo is where you should be at. While we take immense pride in our artistic skills and vision, we always ensure our clients get the best tattoo aftercare for the best results. Book an appointment today!