How Long Does It Take a Tattoo to Heal?

Tattoos are an exciting decision because you get to have a piece of artwork on your body that lasts forever. However, many who get a tattoo are unaware of the healing process, how it changes the appearance of your tattoo, and how long it takes for a tattoo to heal. While the outer layer of skin may appear healed within a few weeks, the complete healing of a tattoo can take up to six months. That is why today you are going to learn how long it takes for tattoos to heal as well as some aftercare practices to ensure you have vibrant ink for years to come.

How Long Does It Take For a Tattoo to Fully Heal?

After getting inked, there are several stages that your tattoo and skin must go through before it is healed. Generally, the outer layer of your skin—the part you see—will completely heal within 2 to 3 weeks of the final session. While this may look like a fully healed tattoo, it may take up to 6 months before the deeper layers of the skin are healed completely.

Tattoo Healing Stages

Let’s have a closer look at what happens week-by-week as your tattoo heals:

Week One

During the first week, your tattoo will be in its most delicate state, considered an open wound. The fresh tattoo may be tender to the touch and exhibit signs of inflammation, such as redness and slight swelling. It is not uncommon for the tattooed area to ooze small amounts of clear liquid mixed with excess ink, which is a natural part of the healing process.

Proper aftercare is critical during this stage. Follow your tattoo artist’s instructions on cleaning and moisturizing the tattoo. Gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm, sterile water and a fragrance-free, antibacterial soap two to three times a day. Pat the area dry with a clean paper towel and apply a thin layer of the recommended moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and promote healing.

Week Two

As the second week of healing begins, you may notice some itching and flaking of the tattooed skin. Again, this is normal. The body will shed the damaged skin cells and begin replacing them with new ones, kind of like when you start healing from sunburn. Resist the urge to scratch or pick at the flakes of skin or the scabbing, as this may disrupt the healing process and damage your tattoo.

If you are struggling with itchy skin, use a small amount of fragrance-free moisturizer. There are many aftercare lotions available for this problem. Do not use heavily scented lotions or any petroleum jelly, as your tattoo needs to breathe.

Weeks Three and Four

During weeks 3 and 4, your tattoo may appear dry and slightly dull due to a layer of dry skin that has formed over it. The initial redness and itching should subside by this point, but the skin may still feel sensitive to touch. Again, you do not want to scratch or pick at the tattoo or the surrounding skin. At this point, any damage to the tattoo could result in unsightly scarring.

Don’t be alarmed by the lack of vibrancy in your tattoo. The vivid colors will return once the skin has fully repaired itself.

Months Two to Six

By this stage, your tattoo should appear fully healed to the naked eye. However, it’s crucial to continue providing proper aftercare to support the deeper layers of the skin as they heal. Keep the tattooed area clean by washing it regularly and applying a light, fragrance-free moisturizer.

During this period, your tattoo will continue to settle into its final appearance. While it may look flawless on the surface, remember that the lower layers of the skin are still healing and strengthening. To protect your tattoo and maintain its vibrancy over time, avoid prolonged sun exposure. If you’re going to be in the sun, wear protective clothing or use sunscreen with a high SPF specifically formulated for tattoos.

How to Reduce How Long It Takes for a Tattoo to Heal

Tattoos take time to heal—around two or six months. You can’t really accelerate the healing stage, but there are steps you can take to ensure that each healing stage is successful. Aside from following the instructions given to you by your trusted tattoo artist, here are some tips to aid with healing and reduce complications:

• Cover your tattoo. You want to protect your new tattoo from damage, including sunlight and friction. Consider covering the tattoo with light, breathable fabrics, like cotton and linen.
• Do not re-bandage your fresh ink. The initial dressing does not have to remain on for long, and once it is gone, do not cover your tattoo again. Allowing your tattoo to breathe is crucial to healing.
• Apply healing ointment. In the first few days, use a recommended product with vitamins A and D (most tattoo studios will give you a small packet of A&D ointment). Afterward, switch to a light, fragrance-free moisturizer or pure coconut oil.
• Regularly clean your tattoo. If you are active, make sure to regularly wash the tattoo with mild soap and lukewarm water. Avoid soaking the tattoo or scrubbing at it.
• Avoid scented products. Refrain from using scented lotions, soaps, or other products on the tattoo to prevent reactions.

Signs Your Tattoo is Not Healing Correctly

Most of the time, if you follow the aftercare instructions and pay attention to your tattoo, there should be no issues with healing. However, there are some instances where your tattoo may become infected. Here are some signs that your tattoo may not be healing properly:

• Fever or chills
• Prolonged redness
• Oozing fluid
• Swollen, puffy skin
• Severe itching or hives
• Scarring

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

Looking for a Tattoo Shop in Philadelphia?

Getting a tattoo is an exciting and artistic way to express yourself, but it’s essential to prioritize proper aftercare and patience during the healing process. Since healing can take as long as two to six months (or longer for bigger pieces), you want to make sure you know how to care for your tattoo. Doing so ensures it will stand the test of time.

Having your tattoo done at Oracle Tattoo Gallery by professional artists is another way to ensure that your ink will look and heal well. Our expert team is known for a variety of styles, incredible skills, and a warm atmosphere. Give our shop a call or send us a message today to schedule your tattoo consultation.