Healing Process

Category: art

The biological process by which the skin repairs itself after the trauma of being tattooed.

Healing typically takes 2–4 weeks. The tattoo will go through stages: initial weeping/oozing, scabbing/flaking, and finally "silver skin" (a shiny layer of new skin). Proper aftercare—cleanliness and hydration—is critical to preserving the ink.

Common Examples

• During the healing process, it is vital to keep the tattoo moisturized but avoid submerging it in water for extended periods.
• Many people experience intense itching during the middle of the healing process, but it is critical not to scratch the flakes.