Definition
How does a tattoo heal?
Tattoo healing is the 2–4-week process during which the skin rebuilds over the ink. It goes through distinct phases: oozing, scabbing, itching and final settling.
During healing, the tattoo may look dull or blurry — that's normal. Full saturation returns after all scabs have fallen off naturally. Never scratch or pick.
Examples
- Week 1: oozing plasma, gentle washing
- Week 2: scabbing and itching — do not scratch
- Weeks 3–4: settled, slightly duller, deep healing continues