Your new tattoo is an investment in self-expression, and understanding the healing process is key to preserving its beauty. At Ink n Beauty in Fort Worth, we provide our clients with detailed guidance to ensure their tattoos heal properly. Here’s everything you need to know about what to expect during the tattoo healing process and how to care for your new ink.

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Stages of Tattoo Healing

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1. The Initial Stage (Days 1–3):

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• After your tattoo session, the area will feel tender, red, and slightly swollen.
• A clear plasma or ink may seep from the tattoo—this is normal.
• Keep the tattoo covered with the protective bandage applied by your artist for the recommended time (usually 2–4 hours).

Care Tips:

• Wash your hands before touching your tattoo.
• Gently clean the area with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap after removing the bandage.
• Pat dry with a clean paper towel—never rub.

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2. The Scabbing Stage (Days 4–10):

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• Scabs or a thin crust will form over the tattoo as your skin begins to heal.
• Itching is common during this stage, but avoid scratching or picking at the scabs.

Care Tips:

• Apply a thin layer of tattoo-safe ointment to keep the area moisturized.
• Avoid heavy sweating, swimming, or prolonged exposure to water.

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3. The Peeling Stage (Days 10–14):

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• The scabs will begin to flake off naturally, revealing a duller version of your tattoo beneath.
• This stage is part of the healing process as new skin forms over the tattoo.

Care Tips:

• Let the peeling happen naturally—do not force or peel the skin.
• Continue using a fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the area hydrated.

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4. The Final Stage (Weeks 3–4):

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• The tattoo will appear fully healed, but the skin beneath is still repairing itself.
• Your tattoo may look slightly lighter or duller, but the colors will brighten as the skin regenerates.

Care Tips:

• Protect your tattoo from the sun by applying a high-SPF sunscreen.
• Avoid exfoliating the area until it’s completely healed.

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Common Tattoo Healing Mistakes to Avoid

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1. Skipping Aftercare: Not following your artist’s aftercare instructions can lead to infections or uneven healing.
2. Over-Moisturizing: Applying too much ointment can suffocate the skin and delay healing.
3. Excessive Sun Exposure: UV rays can fade your tattoo and damage healing skin.
4. Touching or Picking: Interfering with the scabs can remove pigment and cause scarring.

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Signs of a Properly Healing Tattoo

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• Reduced redness and swelling over time.
• Scabs and peeling naturally falling off without force.
• Bright and vibrant tattoo after the healing process is complete.

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If you notice excessive redness, swelling, or discharge, contact your artist or a healthcare professional immediately.

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