Understanding the Tattoo Healing Process
Tattoo Healing Process: The biggest thing that comes to us after getting a complete tattoo is the tattoo healing process and its aftercare. This is a very important process after the tattoo is complete. The look of our tattoo and its longevity depends on it.
In this, our skin goes through many phases when the tattoo is healing. Each phase has its important role on which the final appearance of the tattoo depends. In this article, we will discuss how to start taking care of the tattoo after we come out of the tattoo studio and get our tattoo done.
Image Credit: akosi_jeppy
Phase 1: Initial Healing Stage(Days 1-6)
Day 1: Fresh Tattoo and Wound Management
When you get a new tattoo, the skin undergoes trauma like an open wound. In the first 24 hours, the tattoo artist puts a bandage on your tattoo which he tells you will have to be removed after 2-4 hours. This is done so that the tattoo can be protected from bacteria and other contaminants. This is very important to follow the instructions as the artist tells you to do. Otherwise, you have to face consequences.
Key Points for Day 1:
- Do not remove the bandage too early. You can feel sweating but do not touch or remove anything so soon. Wait for 2-4 hours.
- First, wash your hands with Dettol or sensitizer. Avoid touching the tattoo with unclean hands.
- Clean your tattoo with mineral water when removing the bandages. Refrain from applying any ointments until after the bandage is removed. After Removing the Bandage soak the water with a Tap-Tap with a clean towel or napkin. Don’t Rub it.
- After soaking all water drops and cleaning with a clean towel or napkin, Apply the tattoo ointment that your artist gave you.
Days 2-3: Initial Cleaning and Moisturizing
When you come home after getting a tattoo and remove the bandage from your tattoo after 2-4 hours, you should use clean water that is not too cold or hot. Also, use a fragrance-free soap to clean the tattoo. This will clean the extra ink stuck around the tattoo. Do not rub the tattoo. Clean it gently in a circular motion using your fingers. Then use a clean paper towel and soak up all the water by tapping it.
During this process, you may feel your tattoo swollen and you may see plasma and extra ink leaking around it, which is normal. Once you have thoroughly soaked all the water off your tattoo, apply the tattoo aftercare ointment cream given to you by your tattoo artist gently using your finger to keep the area hydrated.
Key Points for Days 2-3:
- Clean the tattoo 2-3 times a day.
- Apply a thin layer of moisturizer after each cleaning.
- Avoid soaking the tattoo in water (e.g., baths, swimming).
Days 4-6: Scabbing and Itching
By the 4th day, your tattoo will start to develop papules. This is part of the healing process. The itching of the tattoo is also normal. But the most important thing is that you should not scratch the tattoo. And you should not pull off the tattoo scabs. Doing so can cause wounds and loss of ink from the tattoo.
Key Points for Days 4-6:
- Moisturize regularly to reduce itching.
- Do not pick at scabs or peel off dry skin.
- Avoid wearing tight clothing over the tattooed area.
Phase 2: Mid-Healing (Days 7-14)
Days 7-10: Peeling and Flaking
As you recover from 7 to 10 days your skin begins to rebuild. You may notice peeling and flaking similar to sunburn. This is a natural part of the healing process in which dead skin cells are shed. You will need to regularly moisturize your tattoo with clean hands and allow the peeling to occur naturally.
Key Points for Days 7-10:
- Expect peeling and flaking during this time.
- Do not pull off peeling skin; let it fall off naturally.
- Keep the tattoo clean and moisturized.
- Avoid Going to Swimming Pool.
Days 11-14: New Skin Formation
When you are 11 to 14 days into the healing journey of your new tattoo, you may notice that the outer layer of skin is fully healed. But the tattoo is still healing regardless of the surface. You may notice the area becoming larger and shiny, which is a sign that your skin is continually regenerating.
Key Points for Days 11-14:
- Continue with regular cleaning and moisturizing.
- Avoid excessive sun exposure.
- Do not engage in activities that may stretch or stress the tattooed skin.
- Avoid baths in the swimming pool.
Phase 3: Final Healing (Days 15-30+)
Days 15-30: Settling and Finalizing
This is the third phase of the tattoo healing process when the ink of the tattoo has started to settle well and the ink of the tattoo is glowing even better due to the new skin coming on. By the end of this phase the tattoo should be fully healed on the surface. But the deeper layer is still regenerating.
Key Points for Days 15-30:
- Protect the tattoo from the sun with a high-SPF sunscreen.
- Moisturize the area daily to keep the skin healthy.
- Avoid any other skincare products on the tattooed area.
Beyond Day 30: Long-Term Care
When it has been more than 30 days since your tattoo was made, then your tattoo is completely healed. But you should not stop taking care of it.
Then you should still use regular application to maintain its appearance. Keep the tattoo hydrated. Keep it away from sunlight.
If you feel that the ink has not come out properly or has faded somewhere, then you may need touch-ups so that your tattoo looks its best.
Key Points for Long-Term Care:
- Moisturize regularly to keep the skin supple.
- Use sunscreen to prevent fading.
- Schedule touch-ups if necessary.
Common Issues and Solutions
Tattoo Infection Signs and Prevention
One main problem that can arise during the tattoo healing process is tattoo infection, but this can only happen if you do not follow the proper tattoo aftercare procedure.
Signs of infection are that the skin becomes very red, there is swelling, pus forms in the tattoo, and you may also get a fever. If you notice any such symptoms, you should immediately consult a healthcare professional.
Preventative Measures:
- Follow aftercare instructions properly.
- Avoid contact with unclean surfaces.
- Seek medical advice if unusual symptoms appear.
Tattoo Fading: Causes and Prevention
Tattoo fading can happen due to a number of reasons including excessive sun exposure, not following a proper tattoo aftercare procedure, or natural skin aging. To prevent your tattoo from fading, you will need to protect your tattoo from sunlight or apply sunscreen to the tattoo.
Fading Prevention Tips:
- Use the Recommended cream by your tattoo artist.
- Avoid tanning beds and prolonged sun exposure.
- Maintain regular moisturizing to keep the skin healthy.
Conclusion
Tattoo healing is a sensitive process that requires careful and regular care. If you take care of your tattoo as mentioned above, your tattoo healing process will be very good and successful. By doing this, you can keep your tattoo new for a long time and can also avoid any kind of infection. So take good care of your new tattoo and protect yourself and your skin.
