Journal - Healing
Tattoo aftercare: the first two weeks
A day-by-day look at healing a new tattoo, and the signs that mean you should call your artist.
Nov 8, 2026 - 4 min read
Follow your artist first
Artists use different wraps and products, so their instructions win over anything you read online. This is the general shape of healing.
Days 1 to 3
Leave the wrap on for as long as your artist said. Wash gently with clean hands, lukewarm water and unscented soap, then pat dry with paper towel. Some weeping and redness is normal.
Days 4 to 14
It will flake and itch. Don't pick or scratch. Use a thin layer of the moisturizer your artist recommended. Keep it out of pools, baths, hot tubs and the sun.
When to reach out
Contact your artist, or a doctor, if you notice:
- Redness or swelling that spreads or gets worse after day 3
- Heat, thick discharge or a bad smell
- Fever or feeling unwell
After it heals
Sunscreen keeps lines sharp for years. Most artists offer a free touch-up in the first few months if something healed patchy, so send them a photo.
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