How long should a tattoo take to heal?

Question

I have tattoo's ony my arms that took about 2- 2 1/2 weeks to heal (the scab to fall off and be smooth) I've just had my back done 6 days ago and already its flaking, Is this because unlike my arms i keep my back covered to work/ maybe sleep on it unawares or is this normal for backs- its such a big peice i dont want to ruin it- any info especially from tattoo artists (mine is on holiday!) would be apreciated. thank you

Answer 1

yes its normal. my foot tattoo started to scab only a couple of days after getting it done. it takes about 2 weeks for it to look and feel healed but about 30 days to be completely healed under the skin. my back tattoo also did the same. just take care of it as your tattoo artist instructed you to and u should be fine!

Answer 2

It's totally normal. You gotta remember that your skin on your back is TOTALLY different than the skin on your arms, so the healing is gonna be a little different. The one i got on the side of my neck started flaking after two days, but my arms took about 5 days. It's all in the way the skin handles the sitting. Just keep it mosturized with a really good lotion and let it breathe when you can and you'll be fine. Be proud that it's flaking that fast. Means your healing it good and quick!  

Also a little tip, do not stand in the shower and let the water beat straight down on it until you've had it for about 10 days or so. you don't want to drown the new skin that comming through. it can make the flaking process a little more annoyiing.

Answer 3

If you can wash it or about 5 days

Answer 4

I've had 7 tatts, big ones, and they all healed at different times. Some artists are more heavy handed than others, so that's why it takes longer sometimes I believe.

Answer 5

i have 4 tatts, and they were all done by the same person and i guess it dpends on where the tatt is... i have one on each foot and two vaginal ones.  The feet tooks 2 weeks, but the vaginal ones were very very quick to heal...

good luck!

Answer 6

it's totally ok my first tat took a week to heal scabbing instantly (within 2-4 days) some of the others took longer.

Answer 7

I have heard of this happening and usually it is normal. Sleeping on it can cause this to happen.

My family is in the business and they always tell people to use h20cean. It keeps it well hydrated.

I doubt you will 'ruin' it. I have seen people use no aftercare precautions what so ever and theirs still turned out alright.

Usually the tattoo artist will give you a touch up for little or no money at all if it is their work.

Good luck!

Answer 8

the first two days you should keep vitamin A and D ointment on it.  you don't want tattoos to dry out.  apply very thin layer.  then switch to Luberderm lotion, original, i suppose.  anything that is light, non-greasy, fragrance and dye free.   don't use too much, but you do not want it to be dry.  and remember, it itches a little when healing, so DON'T SCRATCH!!  cheers!

Answer 9

2/3 weeks normal on all tats but somewhere like your back is in contact more with other items beds,chairs and heavy clothes so dont worry to much just  keep the cream coming and keep it moist