Your Health

Healthy Tattoo Aftercare Guide

Tattoo Aftercare by Day

The speed of healing a tattoo depends on the intricacy and size of the tattoo. Below is the guideline for tattoo aftercare by day:

– Day 1: You can remove the bandage after several hours. After that, fluids would ooze from the affected area. This is plasma, blood, and extra ink. The skin can be sore, red, and warm to the touch. You need to wash it with soap and warm water before applying another layer of petroleum ointment.

– Day 2 and 3: The tattoo might have a cloudy and dull look, while scabs begin to form. Wash the area once or twice per day and moisturize with an alcohol- and fragrance-free product.

– Day 4 to 6: Redness begins to fade and there might be light scabbing on the tattoo. Keep washing the tattoo and applying moisturizer.

– Day 6 to 14: The scabs become hardened and start to flake off. Avoid pulling or picking them to prevent scars or pulling out the ink. Apply a moisturizer to alleviate the itch as well.

– Day 15 to 30: Most flakes and scabs are gone now. The tattoo might look dull and dry. Keep moisturizing until the skin is hydrated. [2]