How Long Does It Take For A Tattoo To Heal?

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Okay, So you've been tattooed? Now what?!

First of all, Congratulations! If it's your first tattoo, then this might be exactly what you’re itching (pun semi-intended) to read about. Otherwise if it's not your first tattoo, perhaps you already know the whole process here, or have your own tattoo healing process you like to follow (most do). 

Nevertheless, Let's address the question in the title: "How Long Does It Take For A Tattoo To Heal?"

First and foremost, not all tattoos are the same, obviously. They come in a multitude of shapes, sizes, colours, placements and much more. So it's important to understand that there is no, single exact rule, that applies to everyone here. The healing time and the stages of the tattoo healing process will differ, with almost everyone. 

Tattoos And Skin Types

Not to mention, various skin types, coupled with the body's ability to rejuvenate and heal itself are some of the biggest factors involved here. Basically your skin is considered the biggest organ in your body and everyone is different in regards to their 'healing' and 'rejuvenating' abilities. Having 'sensitive' skin can often translate for the need to ensure more care and attention, with a longer tattoo healing process.

The other major factor that comes in to play here is the location of the tattoo. If a tattoo has been done in such a place as an elbow, knee, hand or somewhere where the spot is subject to constant stretching, bending, flexing and movement of the skin, then these places usually tend to take a little longer as the healing process can be 'slowed' with the flexing of the area. In contrast to a tattoo done in a location where there is little-to-no movement, or extensive friction, from clothing or overall movement. 

Tattoo Aftercare Guide

Ensuring the tattoo is kept clean and free from bacteria or infection is very important. Follow our TATTOO CARE GUIDE for a detailed guide on the whole tattoo aftercare process. If any infection or irritation occurs then this will prolong the full healing process of the tattoo. 

However, assuming the correct and proper hygienic care has been conducted, then the tattoo healing process should complete without too much discomfort or delay. 

Stages Of The Tattoo Healing Process 

As a general rule, it is safe to say that the stages of the tattoo healing process undergoes these steps:

'Oozing/Weeping' - which is typical for the first day or so. Sometimes this can last for up to 3-4 days after being tattooed, depending on the size, colour and location. However this length of time is mainly for large and heavy pieces. You can anticipate this is typically only for the first 1-2 days.

'Itching' - something Ink Nurse does an incredible job of minimising or eliminating, can often occur throughout the entire process from day 1-7 (most cases of itch do not last longer than a week).

The scabbing and 'peeling' of the abrasion/wound should follow, usually 2-5 days after being tattooed. Again, can last longer depending on size and placement. 

So in summary, it all depends on the size of the tattoo, the placement and the individual. But it is safe to say that your fresh tattoo should generally feel almost 'normal' and healed, approximately 5 - 10 days post tattoo procedure. 
If we were to dig deeper and talk about the complete rejuvenation and healing of the epidermis and the entire region, then technically it's much longer. However it's safe to anticipate a 5-10 day period of a noticeable 'healed tattoo'.

Ensure You Have Quality Tattoo Aftercare

Remember to take care of it afterwards and into the future by stocking up on the finest tattoo care product on the market! Click here > INK NURSE <

- Betty x