3 Stages of a Healing Tattoo

10/8/2015

Having your tattoo completed can be an exhilarating experience, but don’t think that you can just walk out of the tattoo parlour and show off your perfect tattoo right away.

Here at Body Shock, we are leading providers of tattoo supplies to some of the best tattoo artists from around the world and we know just how much effort goes in to making your tattoos look fantastic. Just like most body modifications, there will be a healing process to go through to make sure that your tattoo looks its best.

It’s really important to understand these healing stages so that you have a better idea of what should and shouldn’t be happening while your tattoo is healing.

Stage One

Once your tattoo is finished it is considered to be a fresh, open wound. Your tattoo artist will generally clean the area to ensure that there is no bacteria that can get into tattoo and will wrap it to keep any other germs from getting in.

During this fresh healing stage, you will need to make sure that you keep it covered for around 2 hours. After this period has passed, gently remove the wrap and clean up any blood and leaked ink away with cool water and a mild soap. Make sure to pat the area dry with a freshly cleaned towel; we don’t want any germs from an old towel getting onto your skin.

Then it’s time to apply your aftercare ointment. Try to use this sparingly as you do need your skin to be able to breathe and heal and it won’t be able to if it is overloaded with ointment.

Your tattoo will look swollen and red during this phase and you will notice that scabs begin to form, which signifies the wound is closing and that your tattoo is progressing ocnto the next stage of healing.

Stage Two

It’s not unusual for you to experience itching during stage two of a healing tattoo. This is the stage where you skin begins to regenerate which is what causes the itching.

As hard as it may be, it’s really important not to pick any scabs or scratch your skin. This can cause scarring and even colour and shape damage to your tattoo; no one wants to ruin that after the time, effort and money that has gone into creating something awesome.

Your tattoo may look like it’s peeling when it gets to this stage. This top layer of skin will fall off and reveal the vibrant colours that have been absorbed in the lower layers, making your tattoo bright and colourful. This should last around a week and you can alleviate any itching by using your tattoo ointment.

Stage Three

The final stage is finally here! Your tattoo will be looking bright and vibrant and any skin flakes or scabs should have disappeared.

It may not look as vibrant as you were expecting, but as the layers of your skin shed and the lower layers become more exposed, you will see that the colour looks as vibrant as when it was freshly done.

Keep cleansing your tattoo once or twice a day to help keep your skin hydrated and encourage those layers to shed.

By now, your tattoo shouldn’t be swollen at all. If you are still experiencing swelling, it’s important to consult your doctor as it could potentially be an infection. Remember, healing a tattoo is a process and it will take time to completely heal, but it will be worth it in the end.

It’s really important to know how to take care of your tattoo properly from the moment you decide on getting one done. Your artist is there to answer any questions that you may have before, during and after your tattoo, so don’t be afraid to ask!

If you are a tattoo artist and are looking for some of the best tattoo supplies available, don’t delay in getting in contact with us by calling 01922 744088 and our friendly team will be available to help you with your enquiries.