Tattoo healing stages

In this article, we go through the different stages of the tattoo healing process.

If you're about to get your first tattoo or even if you've already had several, you've probably wondered at some point what the tattoo healing process includes.

Tattoo healing stages

Let's start with the structure of the skin. The skin has three different layers. Epidermis (outermost layer), dermis (middlemost layer) and subcutaneous tissue (lowest layer), which is mainly adipose tissue.

At the moment when the tattoo has been completed, this area of skin is an open wound. Tattoo needles penetrate the epidermis layer and deeper into the dermis. Tattoos heal in four different stages. Tattoos take about 2-4 weeks to heal from the outermost layer of the skin, but it may take up to 3-6 months to heal from the deeper layers of the skin. After this time, the tattoo is completely healed.
The duration of the tattoo healing process can be affected by the size of the tattoo, where it is located on the body and how much it has been colored. Everyone's body also heals at a different pace. Proper aftercare is the best way to ensure that the tattoo heals in the best way possible.

Stage 1: REDNESS AND OOZING

(The picture was taken in the studio after the tattoo was completed.)

When the tattoo is fresh, the skin may be red and swollen from the operated area. This is the body's way of responding to trauma to the skin by directing blood to the operated area, causing redness and swelling. The tattooed area may also feel warm and tender. The skin also starts oozing fluid, such as plasma, which means that the body has started the healing process. The liquid may also contain blood and ink. All these symptoms are completely normal for fresh tattoos, but if the redness, swelling or oozing does not stop during the first week after getting the tattoo, you should contact your doctor and tattoo artist.

(Picture taken by the client the day after getting the tattoo.)

Stage 2: ITCHING

Most tattoos itch as they heal, just like wounds. The skin tries to prevent infection and tries to repair itself. The itching lasts about 1-2 weeks.

(Picture taken by the client. Tattoo has healed for five days.)

Stage 3: PEELING

After about five days, the skin begins to peel. A scab-like crust appears over the tattoo, which peels off as the skin heals. At this stage, it is important to remember not to scratch or tear this outer layer.