It’s summer, and we feel like sunbathing and swimming, but first we need to make sure our tattoo is healed. How can we tell?
Of course, by following the instructions given by your tattoo artist. Whether you got a bold-line tattoo or fine line tattoos in Madrid with us, following the recommendations during healing is essential. If you want your tattoo to heal properly and maintain its color, you must follow the care instructions provided.
How is a tattoo healed?
Tattoo healing goes through several stages that can be summarized in two: the initial phase and the full healing phase. Coloration, skin appearance, and sensations are aspects to check to distinguish these stages.
If you follow our recommendations, your tattoo should evolve as follows:
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Scabs and peeling:
A few days after getting tattooed, scabs may form.
They are part of the healing process and should never be picked off.
This is why we recommend patting dry rather than rubbing.
Once fully healed, the tattoo will have no scabs. -
Skin appearance:
Initially, your skin may feel rough, dry, or raised in the tattooed area. This is completely normal.
When healing is complete, your skin will be smooth and even, without differences from the rest of your body. -
Redness or inflammation:
Some redness or swelling is normal due to skin trauma. This should disappear over time.
If inflammation persists after several weeks, an infection may exist. -
Absence of infection:
A small amount of fluid in the first days is normal. Clear fluid is fine; yellow or green fluid may indicate infection. -
Tattoo color:
Colors may appear dull during healing because scabs and peeling can obscure them.
This is temporary, and once fully healed, colors will be vibrant again. -
Skin sensations:
It is normal for the tattooed skin to feel sensitive or itchy. These sensations will fade as healing progresses.
How long does it take to heal?
Healing can take several weeks, depending on your body’s regeneration process.
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Superficial healing: 2–4 weeks
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Deep healing: up to 3 months
This doesn’t mean you must follow the initial precautions for three months; it’s the time needed for the deeper layers of the skin to stabilize.
Cleaning the tattoo, avoiding pools and beaches, and keeping it out of the sun protects the superficial skin layer. Once this layer is healed, you can end those precautions.
Remember to moisturize and protect your tattoo from the sun, just as you do with the rest of your skin. You can start doing this once your tattoo is fully healed.