31/05/2026
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The tattoo is an open wound and the healing timeline will vary in length for everybody.
Generally speaking, it takes about 3 weeks for the outer layer of skin to "heal" whereas the layers below the tattoo, 6 months, to truly heal.
Although the tattoo may look and feel healed, you should not slow down on aftercare.
Here's what to do and expect (not to be taken as gospel!)
DAY 1
Congrats on your fresh ink!
If you have gladwrap over your tattoo, leave on for 1-2 hours, and then remove
If second-skin / Saniderm was applied, leave on for 24 hours - 3 days and then remove in the shower until warm running water (in direction of hair growth)
βοΈ If you are experiencing a rash or irritation, remove it immediately as some people can have an allergic reaction
This is the oozing stage. Expect to seep fresh ink, blood, plasma - All the things that are showing your cells are healing!
Once all wrappings are off, apply a small amount of tattoo aftercare cream. (Many can be purchased online however Dr.
Pickles from Woolworths is the most accessible). Make sure your tattoo is thoroughly dry before applying.
DAY 2-3
Although maybe still irritated and red, your tattoo should stop oozing and some healthy scabbing will occur.
Continue to wash your tattoo 1-2 times a day with a gentle soap and water and apply your cream twice a day.
END OF FIRST WEEK
Continue with your aftercare.
The tattoo will have a bit of soft scabbing and begin to feel itchy.
Do not scratch, pick or touch it as you can quite literally pick the ink / art out and damage the quality.
Apply cream when it feels dry to keep lightly moisturised but no more than a few times a day.
WEEKS 2-3
The soft scabs will harden and become flaky - It might even look like your tattoo is peeling off. This is normal. The tattoo will be
"healed" when it all flakes off and feels like normal skin again.
Continue with aftercare.
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