A new tattoo is considered to be an open wound so naturally they require proper aftercare in order for them to heal correctly. Through each stage of the healing process the tattoo will need attention. Tattoos must be kept clean and exposed to least amount of germs as possible. The healing stages of a tattoo will be as unique as the individual who is experiencing it.
Different factors play their roles in the nature and manner that your tattoo tends to heal. A number of these factors tend to be centered on the kind of skin you possess and where your tattoo is located anatomically. Also of note are the tattoo artist and the style and manner they use to create your tattoo.
Any tattoo artist who finishes your tattoo will usually put a bandage over your tattoo along with instructions that you should leave it in place for a number of hours in order to reduce the amount of exposure your fresh tattoo has to the external elements.
A brand new tattoo is similar to having minor surgeries so don’t be surprised if your tattoo bleeds a little for the first 24 hours. This is normal and your bandage will help absorb any bleeding from your tattoo initially following your procedure. One thing to note is to be extremely careful when removing your bandage and to not let a large amount of blood dry on your bandage.
A fresh tattoo usually experiences the initial healing stage almost immediately and this stage will mean that your tattoo will be red, a tad sore and a bit swollen as well. In addition to this experience you might also get a slight and stinging feeling rather similar to sunburn. This is a common comparison most people who have gotten tattoos tend to associate the process with.
The first healing stage of your new tattoo is experienced almost initially so expect that your tattoo is going to be sore, red, and possibly a bit swollen. You may also experience a slight stinging sensation that is similar to the feeling of sunburn. Tattoo artists will tell you that getting a tattoo feels like strong sunburn; the truth is that a healing tattoo will often feel like sunburn.
The tattoo healing process is similar to recovering from bad sunburn. It is quite common for a new tattoo to peel after a couple of days. Never peel the skin away yourself during any part of the healing process because it will likely pull the ink out of your tattoo leaving it discolored or uneven in appearance. You will also notice that your new tattoo feels tight, dry, and itchy. Keep applying your tattoo aftercare lotion to hydrate the tattoo and alleviate these symptoms. It is normal to see small flakes of colored skin flake away from your tattoo as your tattoo is healing.
Different healing stages tend to be linked with new tattoos and they follow from the first week to the third week. In the first week, you should expect to feel a little soreness or redness accompanied with slight bleeding which may occur within a day after the procedure. In the second week you should expect your tattoo to flake or peel and perhaps become itchy. Week three is more or less the final week and the scabbing and peeling will have reduced although the area might still feel rather sensitive as well.
