A tattoo is essentially a wound inflicted on your skin. How to properly care for this wound and what healing stages the skin goes through are explained here:
What happens to my skin after a tattoo session?
After your tattoo session and the actual tattooing, the normal healing phase begins. First, the damaged blood vessels close, which leads to an increased release of wound fluid in the affected area. This is a natural response of the body to clean the wound and flush out foreign substances and bacteria. It is therefore normal to release not only wound fluid but also some pigment after getting a tattoo.
Only the larger, water-insoluble pigments that cannot be broken down or transported away by immune cells remain in the skin. Typically, about 10 to 18 hours after the skin is injured, the wound begins to dry and forms a scab, which acts as a natural protective layer. Usually, wound fluid stops being released after around 24 hours, although this may take longer for very large tattoos.
Good to know:
The scab may appear discolored after tattooing. With black ink, it often looks slightly gray. Especially with colored tattoos, the scab may not look very appealing. This is because pigment particles are partially transported away along with blood and wound fluid.
Do’s and Don’ts during the cleaning phase
DOs:
Only touch the tattoo wound with clean hands.
Cover smaller wounds with a breathable bandage for at least 24 hours and up to three days (you’ll receive this bandage right after your tattoo session).
Change the bandage if a lot of fluid collects underneath it (otherwise leave it on for three to five days).
DON’Ts:
Do not wear abrasive or lint-producing clothing or jewelry directly over the tattooed area.
Avoid touching the tattoo with unwashed hands.
Do not remove scabs or scratch the area.
Avoid saunas, swimming pools, sunbathing, and tanning beds.
Refrain from physical exertion (sports) for the first 14 days.
The regeneration phase
About one day after tattooing, a process called re-epithelialization begins, during which the outer skin layer (epidermis) is rebuilt to repair the damaged skin barrier. Depending on the depth and size of the wound, this process can take several days until the epidermis—and therefore the skin barrier—is fully restored. Re-epithelialization occurs more quickly if the scabs are kept slightly moist.
At the same time, the punctures in the dermis must be filled with new tissue. Specialized cells called fibroblasts migrate into the wound and produce new connective tissue. This creates a temporary wound closure that appears light red, slightly translucent, and moist. This newly formed skin is still very sensitive.
The outer skin layer (epidermis) is usually restored no earlier than the fourth day. Before that, the skin is still in the cleaning phase, during which it attempts to push out foreign substances from below to the surface. Based on current research, the Beiersdorf Expert Circle therefore recommends supporting skin regeneration only from the fourth day onward by applying cream to the tattooed area several times a day. Experts recommend fragrance-free creams containing panthenol to promote the rebuilding of the skin barrier.
In the final phase of wound healing, known as remodeling, the production of new collagen and elastin is stimulated to rebuild a strong network of collagen fibers. Depending on the size of the injury, this process can take several weeks to months.
Even during this regeneration phase, you can support your skin with professional tattoo care products to help it heal faster and more effectively. This helps ensure that your tattoo retains vibrant colors and sharp lines over time.
Summary: How long does a tattoo take to heal?
After 10 to 18 hours, the wound begins to dry. After about 24 hours, wound fluid usually stops being released. The skin barrier (the outermost layer of the skin) is typically fully restored within three to ten days, depending on the size of the tattoo. However, the complete healing of the dermis (the layer where the pigments are stored) can take several weeks to months.
What complications can occur during healing?
As with any wound, mild pain, tightness, and redness may occur, depending on the size and location of the tattoo. It is also common for the tattoo to itch. However, if severe pain, fever, or chills occur, this may indicate a bacterial infection. In such cases, it is advisable to consult a doctor or visit a hospital immediately.
If your tattoo continues to ooze, produces pus, causes intense pain, becomes excessively red, or feels very warm during the healing phase, you should seek medical attention right away.