Caring for your new tattoo isn’t just about following a list of steps, it’s also about protecting the work of art that has become a part of you. At Mad Rabbit, we believe in combining science-based aftercare, real skin expertise, and respect for each individual’s healing process. This detailed guide provides a day-to-day guide to your tattoo healing journey, honest advice for each step, and insights from both dermatologists and professional tattoo artists. Think of this as the resource we wish existed when our team got their first (or 50th) tattoo. Personal, accurate, and clear about what will work in 2025.
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Accurate day-to-day timeline of tattoo healing (2025)
Understanding daily milestones can help prevent anxiety and avoid common mistakes. Here’s what your skin is actually doing and how you can help it.
Day 0: Immediately after the tattoo session
Tattoo artists typically wrap new tattoos with a sterile bandage or second skin film. We recommend leaving the bandage on for at least 2-4 hours unless your artist recommends a second skin wrap for up to 48 hours. Do not touch the area with unwashed hands.
Day 1: First cleanser and air dry
Remove the plastic wrap with freshly washed hands. Gently wash your tattoo using warm water and unscented detergent. The Mad Rabbit New Tattoo Aftercare Intro Kit contains a specially formulated tattoo wash for the recovery phase. Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Let the area air dry for about 10 minutes. Do not use lotion on the first day unless specifically instructed by the artist. Some redness and oozing is normal at this point. Repeat 1-2 times throughout the day.
Days 2-3: Sensitivity, oozing, first moisturizer.
Swelling, pain, and redness may appear. Tattoos look and feel similar to tanning. Use a clean, unscented moisturizer or gentle tattoo balm twice a day after washing. Mad Rabbit Soothing Gel and Tattoo Balm Stick are very effective for this and will help calm any visible irritation. Repeat these steps every morning and evening, or as needed. Avoid direct friction, tight clothing, sunlight, sweating, dirt, swimming, etc.
Days 4-7: Peak peeling and itching
Your tattoo may peel or begin to peel (similar to after a light sunburn). Itching increases. Do not pick or scratch. If necessary, pat the skin or use a cooling gel such as Mud Rabbit Soothing Gel to relieve symptoms. Continue to wash your tattoo regularly with a fragrance-free detergent. Moisturize two to three times a day to keep the area hydrated but not greasy.
Days 8-10: Peeling slows and looks cloudy.
The peel will be tapered. The tattoo may appear dull or slightly cloudy, which is often referred to as the “milky phase.” Residual peeling is still normal. Continue to moisturize as needed and avoid using exfoliants. If you’re not dirty or sweaty, you can reduce laundry to once a day using the same unscented cleanser.
Days 11-14: Sedimentation of the outer layer
The top layer of your skin will begin to peel away, revealing the vibrant colors of your tattoo. Your skin may feel tight or shiny. Stay hydrated with this lightweight, unscented lotion. If you’re exposed to the sun, it’s important to start using SPF 30 daily. Mad Rabbit’s SPF 30 Tattoo Sunscreen is made specifically for your new ink. However, for optimal recovery, avoid sunlight after the 14th day.
Days 15-30: Surface repairs and color appears.
Although the tattooed skin appears to be healing to the eye, the deeper layers are still healing. Continue to moisturize daily, avoid exfoliating, and be sure to apply SPF before going out. Avoid swimming, saunas, and direct sunlight for at least a full month.
Months 2-6: Internal healing and maximum vitality
The dermal layer (the layer where the ink is trapped) keeps the pigment stable. Support your skin with daily hydration and always use SPF to keep your color true and bold.
What to expect: Photos and skin changes
Here’s what you might see in each phase: Please note that healing varies depending on skin type, location, and care.
Days 1-3: Reddish, shiny, wet appearance. Plasma and ink may ooze out during cleaning; this is to be expected. Days 4-10: The skin begins to peel or flake, giving it a patchy, dry appearance. Resist the urge to pinch it, as removing it may affect the consistency of the ink. End of second week: Most of the peeling has subsided. The tattoo will look slightly more muted due to the fresh layer of skin, approaching clarity. 30 days later: The tattoo appears to be fully settled, but deep healing continues.
Explore real healing journeys from real customers. Our reviews and community are filled with dramatic before and after photos across all skin tones and tattoo styles.
Tips from dermatologists and professional artists (What works and what to avoid)
Hand hygiene is very important. Be sure to never touch a healing tattoo without washing your hands, as infection is most likely to occur within the first 48 to 72 hours. Never over-moisturize. Choose a breathable moisturizer and stop applying when the area feels moist. Thick ointments can suffocate the skin, delaying healing, and risk smearing the ink. No matter how “healed” it seems, don’t swim or be in water for at least three weeks. Wear loose, soft clothing. Friction and sweat can cause inflammation and allow bacteria to invade. Start using sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) only after the tattoo has completely peeled off (recommended at least after 14 days). Otherwise, the blockage may delay healing. Never pick or scratch. The flakes will fall off naturally. Picking increases the risk of scarring and discoloration. Monitor your progress. If the swelling or oozing does not improve, or if yellow-green pus or fever develops, see a dermatologist or tattoo artist immediately. Complications are rare with careful aftercare, but prompt action is key.
Aftercare products and when to use each type
Healing Phase Recommended Products Directions for Use Days 0-3 New Tattoo Aftercare Intro Kit Gently clean your tattoo twice daily. Use Repair Tattoo Wash as part of your morning and night routine. Days 2-14 Soothing Gel, Tattoo Balm Stick, New Tattoo Wash Apply a light layer after cleansing to soothe itchiness and lock in moisture. Avoid oily balms at this stage. After Day 14 (Maintenance) Daily Tattoo Lotion, SPF 30 Tattoo Sunscreen Moisturize daily and start using sunscreen before outdoor exposure to prevent premature fading.
Quick Reference: Signs of normal and abnormal healing
What are the normal symptoms? Redness Days 1-3 Yes, if mild and faded Swelling Days 1-3 Yes, if plasma exudation has improved First 24 hours Normal Peeling/Peeling Days 4-14 Generally, do not pick. Itching Days 4-10 Yes, relieved by dabbing Pus, yellow/green discharge Anytime Not normal – Contact your health care professional Rash, red streaks, fever Anytime Not normal – Contact your health care professional
Tattoo Aftercare Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it really take for a tattoo to heal?
The superficial layer usually heals within two to four weeks, but the deeper layers of the skin trap pigment and take several months to fully recover. Be consistent with aftercare for best long-term results.
When should I apply sunscreen?
Once all peeling and peeling has stopped (usually after 14 days), use an SPF 30 or higher. Tattoo-specific sunscreen can help prevent premature fading and drying.
Is it normal for my tattoo to fade or look milky while healing?
yes. A “milky color” is often seen during the peel, but once fully healed, the vibrancy will return. If your tattoo is still dull or irritated after 4 weeks, see your artist or dermatologist.
Can I use Mad Rabbit products on old or faded tattoos?
absolutely. Our tattoo balms and daily tattoo lotions are designed to rejuvenate both new and existing ink. Check out our reviews page for verified before and after customer images and real transformation stories.
Resources for deeper understanding
Share your aftercare journey
Each tattoo represents a specific moment in time, and the aftercare journey is equally personal. If you want to share your progress or have any questions, please tag #madrabbit on Instagram. Considering getting a tattoo in LA? Book a session at Mad Rabbit Tattoo Studio and receive your personalized, artist-guided aftercare plan. See how a science-backed routine can transform not just your tattoo, but your entire healing experience.
Ready to start or upgrade your aftercare? The Mad Rabbit New Tattoo Aftercare Intro Kit includes clean, dermatologist-tested essentials for every stage of healing in one carefully selected bundle.
