Tattoo Healing Stages: What to Expect & How to Care for Your Ink
Getting a new tattoo is exciting—but what happens after you leave the studio is just as important as the design itself. Proper healing is key to making sure your ink stays bold, vibrant, and beautiful for years to come.
At Brass Knuckles Ink Tattoo Studio in the Bronx, we make sure every client understands how to care for their tattoo from day one. Here’s your complete guide to what to expect during the healing process—plus expert aftercare tips to keep your ink in top shape.
The 4 Stages of Tattoo Healing
Stage 1: Fresh Wound & Redness (Days 1–3)
Your tattoo is technically a fresh wound.
Expect some redness, swelling, and light bleeding or oozing of plasma/ink.
Wash it gently with antibacterial soap and pat dry.
Apply a thin layer of recommended ointment or moisturizer.
Pro Tip: Don’t over-moisturize—less is more in these early days.
Stage 2: Scabbing & Itching (Days 4–14)
• The top layer will start to form scabs or flake.
• Do not pick, scratch, or peel—this can damage the ink and cause scarring.
• Continue moisturizing with a fragrance-free lotion 2–3x daily.
• Itchiness is normal—resist the urge!
Pro Tip: Tap or gently slap the area instead of scratching.
Stage 3: Peeling & Dullness (Days 15–21)
• The tattoo may look dull or cloudy during this time.
• This is because a new layer of skin is forming.
• You’ll still want to moisturize daily and avoid sun exposure.
Pro Tip: Keep it clean and avoid soaking it in water (no pools or hot tubs yet!).
Stage 4: Settling In (Weeks 3–6)
• The outer skin is healed, but deeper layers are still recovering.
• Your tattoo may now look more vibrant as the skin finishes healing.
• Continue sun protection and moisturizing regularly.
Pro Tip: Wear SPF 30+ on your tattoo anytime it’s exposed to the sun—forever!
Top Tattoo Aftercare Tips
• No scratching, picking, or scrubbing
• Avoid tight clothing that rubs against the area
• Don’t submerge in water (baths, pools, lakes) during healing
• Use clean hands every time you touch your tattoo
• Protect your ink from the sun with SPF, even after it’s healed
How Long Does a Tattoo Take to Heal?
Healing time varies based on:
• Tattoo size and placement
• Your body’s natural healing ability
• Aftercare practices
Most tattoos take about 2–4 weeks to fully heal on the surface, with deeper healing continuing for a few more weeks.
Want Your Tattoo to Age Beautifully?
At Brass Knuckles Ink, we don’t just create bold, custom designs—we also educate our clients on how to care for their tattoos for long-lasting results. Your ink is an investment, and proper healing makes all the difference.
Have a question about healing or aftercare? Message us directly or book a follow-up appointment—we’re here to help.
Ready to book? Schedule your appointment today!