If it is your first colored tattoo then you may wonder how much time it takes to heal! Larger the size of a tattoo, the longer it takes to heal the wound. The healing of a tattoo also depends on where on your body the tattoo is! The outer layer of skin typically takes between 4 to 6 weeks to heal depending on the size and position. But the complete colored tattoo healing process in all skin layers will take about 4-6 months.
Colored Tattoo Healing Stages
A colored tattoo healing process goes through 4 phases. How long it takes for a colored tattoo to heal in each stage also depends on the precautions you take or do not take at each stage.
On the first day after tattooing, the tattoo artist will wrap your tattoo securely. The first stage of the tattoo healing process will last about 6 days. At this point, you may notice redness on your body, oozing, slight inflammation or swelling, or a burning sensation. In the healing stage, you have to be very careful with your colored tattoo. You have to avoid direct sunlight and be careful to keep it as clean as possible.
In the second stage, your tattoo will have dried and you may feel an itching. Moreover, you may notice Your top layers of skin are now trying to heal and to close the skin for further healing still to come. In this situation, you have to make sure to keep your colored tattoo perfectly clean.
Third and Fourth stages
In the third stage, the scabs should have completely fallen off and a thin layer of skin should have appeared over the tattoo. It may take 2 to 4 weeks. peeling is a normal indication of the healing process.
After 6 months your colored tattoo will completely be healed in all skin layers and the color will be completely absorbed by your skin. If you have dry skin you have to apply the aftercare regularly so the skin stays hydrated and the color has vibrant.
In the colored tattoo healing process, aftercare has played a great role.
Aftercare that should be done after tattooing:
- You have to wash your tattoo 3 time a day and try to use an unscented lotion after washing the tattoo.
- Do not re-bandage after you take off the initial dressing.
- Cover it up as long as your tattoo artist recommends.
- Wear a sun-protective cloth whenever go outside as fresh tattoos are very sensitive.
- Scabbing is a process of healing but does not scratch too much which can affect the healing process.
- Avoid scented lotion and soap that can harm your colored tattoo
- Don’t do exercise, swimming, or sports for the first 2 weeks.
- Call your tattoo artist or doctor if you experience any symptoms or other problems.
- Drink plenty of water to keep your skin moisturized.
- Avoid excess weight gain or loss. Weight changes could stretch out or distort the tattoo.
My name is James Dalton specialize in developing research-based content on the fashion & lifestyle industry. And has good experience in tattooing. Tattooing is my hobby and worked for some years as a tattoo artist.
