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In this article, we’ll guide you step by step through your tattoo’s healing process- from the moment you step out of the studio to the day your skin is fully recovered.
Wondering what to expect physically and mentally (because once the itch kicks in… 🥲)? You’re in the right place.
You’ve just walked out of the artist’s booth with your latest piece of art. Adrenaline is still pumping through your veins as your artist walks you through the aftercare routine. Your head might be in the clouds, but you smile and nod politely (which is totally fine- that’s why we’re equipped with a handy dandy aftercare guide for you to take home).
Your tattoo might be red, swollen, warm to the touch and a little gooey (a mix of blood, lymphatic fluid and ink- yummm). This is all totally normal. Day one is done and dusted and hopefully you drift off to sleep with a big grin while your body gets to work.
✨ Tip: Wear loose clothing, avoid friction and try not to sleep on your new tattoo.
The first week is when the real healing kicks off. The redness will fade, but your skin might still feel tight. And then comes the toughest part: the itching. This happens because your body treats a new tattoo as a wound and starts repairing it by forming a protective layer (scabs and flakes) while new skin cells grow underneath. That process = itch city.
Your tattoo might start to peel while the surrounding area could still be slightly swollen. We’ll say it loud for the people in the back: do. not. scratch. The bigger the tattoo, the worse it might itch. Gloves, distraction, sheer willpower—do whatever it takes because scratching can damage the ink and slow the healing process.
☀️ Tip (you saw this coming, loyal readers): Keep your tattoo out of the sun and avoid saunas, pools, oceans, and baths. Anything that involves soaking, sweating or sun exposure needs to be filed under “save it for later”.
By now, your tattoo is probably flaking and shedding tiny scabs. This is a good sign! It means the top layer of skin is renewing itself. The itch might still be hanging around, so maybe keep those gloves close by (just in case).
Your tattoo may look a bit dull or cloudy during this phase, often described as a “silver haze.” No need to panic, this is also completely normal.
💧 Tip: Stay hydrated, keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight, and give your skin space to breathe. Temporary vampire life = long-term tattoo glory.
Around the two-week mark, the top layer of skin is mostly healed. The gloves and sheer willpower can finally go back into the closet. Your tattoo will start to look brighter, and your skin should feel pretty normal again.
But don’t get too excited and start marinating in a jacuzzi just yet, because the deeper layers might still be healing beneath the surface.
🛡️ Tip: Keep moisturizing with a good, fragrance-free lotion. And keep skipping the tanning beds for now, no matter how tempting.
At this stage, your tattoo is nearly (if not totally) healed. You can swim again, enjoy the sun and soak in hot tubs to your heart’s content. Just don’t forget to apply high-SPF sunscreen when exposing your tattoo to sunlight.
Also, avoid rubbing it with rough fabrics or sports gear. To keep your tattoo looking sharp, keep your skin moisturized with a lotion that suits your skin type for the rest of your life.
🔍 Heads up: If your tattoo suddenly feels sore, overly dry, or just “off,” reach out to your artist. They’ll either reassure you or recommend a visit to your doctor if needed.
A well-cared-for tattoo stays vibrant for years. So if you want to get the most out of your ink, check out our complete aftercare bible (we update it whenever necessary) and read our touch-up guide if a little refresh is on the horizon.
We hope you’ve learned something new and that you walk into your next appointment with confidence and a little skip. 🧘♀️
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