MORE THAN INK
MORE THAN INK
Your tattoo is a permanent investment. Follow these steps carefully to ensure proper healing and keep your ink looking its best for life.
The first day is the most critical. Your tattoo is an open wound — treat it with care.
Consistency is key during the healing phase. A simple routine repeated daily will protect your investment.
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These are the most common mistakes that lead to fading, infection, or damage to your tattoo.
No pools, ocean, lakes, or hot tubs for at least 3 weeks. Water carries bacteria and chemicals that damage fresh ink.
Keep the tattoo covered and out of direct sunlight while healing. UV rays fade ink and damage healing skin.
Let scabs and peeling skin fall off naturally. Picking removes ink and can cause scarring.
Wear loose, breathable fabric over the tattoo. Tight clothing rubs the area and pulls off scabs early.
Showers are fine, but avoid baths and submerging the tattoo. Keep showers short the first week.
Heavy workouts irritate the tattoo and introduce bacteria. Take it easy the first 5–7 days.
Knowing what to expect at each stage will save you from unnecessary worry. Every tattoo heals differently — this is a general timeline.
The area will be red, slightly swollen, warm to the touch, and tender — normal inflammation. Ink and plasma may weep from the surface; wipe gently with a clean paper towel.
The tattoo will feel dry and itchy, similar to a healing sunburn. Skin may peel and flake — this is healthy. Do not scratch; tap gently if the itch is unbearable.
Light scabbing continues. The tattoo may look dull or milky — dead skin over the healing tattoo, it will clear up. Keep moisturizing and don't pick.
Most peeling is complete and the tattoo begins to settle into the skin. Colors may still look slightly muted — full vibrancy returns around 4–6 weeks.
Some discomfort is normal. These signs are not.
Excessive redness or swelling beyond the first 3 days · Pus or unusual discharge · Fever or chills · Extreme pain that doesn't improve · Red streaks radiating from the tattoo · Persistent rash or hives around the area
These may indicate an infection or allergic reaction. Early treatment is always easier than late.
Long-Term Care
If you're unsure how your tattoo is healing, don't hesitate to reach out.