Tattoo Healing Timeline: What to Expect Week by Week

You just got your tattoo... congrats! 🎉 Now comes the part that doesn’t always get the spotlight: healing.

At 808 Studios in downtown Halifax, we know that what you do after your session matters just as much as what happens during it. Whether you’ve been tattooed by Jack or another one of our amazing artists, here’s a week-by-week guide on what to expect as your skin recovers, plus tips to keep your ink looking flawless for years to come.''

🗓️ Week 1: The “Fresh Ink” Stage

What You’ll See:

• Your tattoo looks bold, clean, and shiny

• Some redness, swelling, and slight soreness

• It may ooze clear fluid or ink for the first 24–48 hours

What to Do:

• Keep your tattoo clean and lightly moisturized

• Avoid touching it with dirty hands

• Don’t pick, scratch, or smother it

At 808, we’ll send you home with aftercare instructions and product recs. You’ll also leave with a clean bandage or wrap, your artist will let you know when to remove it and wash up.

🗓️ Week 2: The Itchy + Peely Phase

What You’ll See:

• Scabbing or flaking (like a sunburn)

• Dullness or cloudiness over your tattoo

• Itchiness. Lots of it.

What to Do:

• Moisturize regularly (unscented, gentle lotion)

• Do NOT pick or scratch

• Avoid swimming, hot tubs, or direct sun

This phase is normal and temporary, the outer layer of skin is shedding and rebuilding.

🗓️ Week 3: Looking Better, Still Healing

What You’ll See:

• Less itchiness, almost no scabbing

• Tattoo looks “settled” but maybe not quite as vibrant as day one

What to Do:

• Keep moisturizing

• Avoid heavy workouts that might irritate healing areas

• Still be gentle, your tattoo isn’t fully healed yet

🗓️ Week 4–6: Almost There

What You’ll See:

• Clear, vibrant tattoo

• Skin texture returns to normal

• No more flaking or scabbing

What to Do:

• Start using SPF if your tattoo is exposed

• Stick to a gentle skincare routine

• Check in with your artist if anything feels off

Realism pieces (like the kind Jack is known for) rely heavily on contrast and detail, so good aftercare helps preserve every subtle shadow and line.

👀 After 6 Weeks: Healed... But Still Evolving

Your tattoo is healed, but it will continue settling into your skin over the next few months. Color may soften slightly, lines may blur a touch, but with proper care, your ink should age gracefully.

If you notice patchy healing or fading, we’re always here to help, just reach out for a free check-in or to ask about a touch-up.

🛋️ Bonus: Healing Support at 808 Studios

When you book with 808 Studios, you’re not just getting inked, you’re getting a full-care experience, including:

• A calm, clean studio to start your healing right

• Free drinks and snacks to keep your energy up during long sessions

• Aftercare guides and honest advice from your artist

Because a tattoo should look incredible not just today, but years from now.