TL;DR:

The first 14 days after getting a tattoo are critical for healing. This guide offers a daily timeline of what to expect—from redness and plasma weeping in the first 48 hours to scabbing, flaking, and itching by week two. Learn how to care for your tattoo each day, when to wash, what to apply, and when to consult your artist.

Getting a tattoo is only the first part of the process—aftercare plays a major role in how your ink looks for years to come. Healing isn’t linear, and many people panic when they see peeling, redness, or raised skin. This article offers a daily walkthrough so you can feel confident, not confused, at every stage.

Day 1: Fresh Ink and Initial Wrapping

What to Expect:

• Skin is red, swollen, and may ooze plasma, blood, or ink
• Your artist will wrap it with a sterile bandage or second skin (e.g., Saniderm)

Aftercare Instructions:

• Keep the bandage on for 2–6 hours (or follow artist’s advice)
• Wash hands thoroughly before touching
• Gently clean with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap
• Pat dry with clean towel or paper towel—never rub
• Apply a thin layer of aftercare ointment (if not using second skin)

Day 2: Oozing Slows, Sensitivity Remains

What to Expect:

• Slight soreness, like a sunburn
• Ink smudges or plasma stains may appear under second skin (normal)
• Area may feel warm to the touch

Aftercare Instructions:

• If using second skin: leave it on
• If not: wash 2x daily and apply a thin layer of unscented moisturizer or balm
• Avoid tight clothing or anything that rubs the tattoo

Day 3–4: Beginning of Scabbing Phase

What to Expect:

• Tattoo may appear dull or cloudy
• Minor scabbing or tightness begins
• Some peeling around edges may start

Aftercare Instructions:

• Do not pick or scratch
• Continue gentle washing and moisturizing
• Still avoid workouts, soaking, or sun exposure

Day 5–7: Peak Itch and Flaking

What to Expect:

• Itching intensifies (resist scratching!)
• Flakes of colored or black skin will peel off—this is normal
• The tattoo may look uneven or “faded” during this phase

Aftercare Instructions:

• Use clean hands to pat, not scratch
• Moisturize regularly
• Avoid sweating, steam, and tight-fitting clothing

Day 8–10: Flaking Slows, Tattoo Looks Dull

What to Expect:

• Peeling slows but dryness persists
• Tattoo may appear slightly faded or “milky” (normal haze)
• Any leftover scabs begin to lift off

Aftercare Instructions:

• Apply lotion 2–3 times a day
• Reduce washing to once a day if there’s no visible residue
• Continue avoiding sun, pools, saunas

Day 11–14: Outer Healing Completes

What to Expect:

• Most peeling stops
• Tattoo color begins to return
• Skin feels normal but may be tight or mildly dry

Aftercare Instructions:

• Keep moisturizing
• Protect with SPF if exposed to sun
• Avoid harsh exfoliants for at least another week

What’s Normal vs. When to Worry

Normal Signs:

• Redness and irritation (first 3–4 days)
• Plasma or ink oozing (Day 1–2)
• Peeling and itchiness (Day 4–10)
• Slight tightness and flaking (up to Day 14)

Consult your artist or a doctor if you notice:

• Pus or yellow/green discharge
• Spreading redness or swelling
• Heat or fever
• Unrelenting pain beyond Day 3–4

FAQ

Q: Can I workout during the healing phase?

A: Light workouts after Day 4 are generally fine, but avoid sweating directly onto the tattoo or stretching the area too much.

Q: Is it okay if my tattoo looks faded or patchy while healing?

A: Yes, this is often due to peeling skin. True color and detail return once the outer layer fully regenerates.

Q: How long before I can go swimming?

A: Wait at least 3–4 weeks. Submerging in pools, lakes, or hot tubs can introduce bacteria and disrupt healing.

Q: Can I re-bandage the tattoo after the first day?

A: Not recommended unless advised by your artist. Tattoos need air to heal once the initial wrap is removed.

Q: Is itching a good sign?

A: Yes. It usually means new skin is forming, but don’t scratch—pat or apply moisturizer instead.

Conclusion

The first two weeks after getting a tattoo are all about patience, cleanliness, and resisting the urge to interfere with nature’s healing process. Understanding what’s normal day by day helps prevent unnecessary worry and ensures your ink heals vibrant and clean. Follow your artist’s advice, use clean products, and let your body do the rest.