how long do tattoos take to get

THE TATTOO AFTERCARE: WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience, but the real work begins after you leave the artist’s chair. Proper tattoo aftercare is crucial for ensuring your new ink heals beautifully and minimizes the risk of infection or complications. This involves a delicate balance of keeping the area clean while allowing it to breathe and heal naturally. 

This guide will provide you with essential tips and information on how to care for your fresh tattoo, from the immediate post-tattoo steps to long-term considerations. By following these guidelines, you can help your tattoo heal optimally and enjoy its vibrant colors and intricate designs for years to come.

TATTOO AFTERCARE: FIRST 30 DAYS AND BEYOND

Healing time varies depending on your tattoo’s size and intricacy. Larger tattoos tend to stay red and swollen for longer as they cause more trauma to the skin.

Day 1

When you leave the tattoo studio, your tattoo will be covered with a dressing. Your artist will tell you when to remove it. Plastic wrap and gauze are typically removed after a few hours, while medical-grade adhesive (known as “second skin”) can stay on for several days. Brands like Dermalize, Flexifix, Saniderm, SecondSkin, Tatu-Derm, and Tegaderm are commonly used.


Fluid, including blood, plasma, and excess ink, may ooze from your tattoo. It will also be red, sore, and warm to the touch. When it’s time to remove the dressing, wash your hands thoroughly before gently peeling it off. Cleanse the area with warm water and fragrance-free soap, rinse well, and then lightly pat dry. Afterward, wait a few minutes before applying the ointment or lotion your artist recommends.

Days 2–3:
Your tattoo will likely have a duller, cloudier appearance as your skin starts healing. Scabs may form.


Continue washing your tattoo once or twice a day, and don’t worry if some ink runs into the sink. This is just excess ink coming up through your skin. Let your skin dry completely before applying the recommended ointment or lotion.

Days 4–6:
By now, the second skin should be removed. Some artists suggest running the area under water while peeling off the adhesive. Make sure your hands are clean before starting.
Gently stretch the adhesive and peel it off slowly. Afterward, cleanse the area, let it dry, and apply the recommended ointment or lotion.


Redness should be fading, and light scabbing may appear. Avoid picking at the scabs, as this can cause scarring. Continue washing your tattoo once or twice daily and applying ointment as needed.

Days 6–14:
Scabs will begin to flake off naturally, but don’t pick at them. Pulling them off prematurely can remove ink and cause scarring. Itching is common during this time. To soothe it, use a fragrance-free, alcohol-free moisturizer several times a day. If the tattoo remains red and swollen, consult your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional for advice on possible infection.

Days 15–30:
By now, most scabs should be gone, and any remaining flakes will fall off. The tattooed area may still look dry and dull, but it should start to feel smoother. Continue moisturizing until the skin appears hydrated again. By the second or third week, the outer skin layers will have healed, but deeper layers may take 3–4 months to fully heal.

Expect your tattoo to look bright and vivid again by the end of the third month.

Tips for Long-Term Tattoo Care:
Once your tattoo has healed, it’s important to maintain its appearance.

  • Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to support overall health and keep your skin elastic.
  • Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen to protect your tattoo from UV damage and keep the colors vibrant.
  • Avoid Rapid Weight Fluctuations: Rapid weight gain or loss can stretch and distort your tattoo.

SELECTING THE BEST SKIN CARE PRODUCTS FOR TATTOO AFTERCARE

USE SOAP

Always opt for a mild, fragrance-free soap or a specially formulated tattoo cleanser to clean the tattooed area.

Many tattoo artists recommend:

  • Dr. Bronner’s 18-in-1 Hemp Baby Unscented Pure-Castile Soap
  • Dove Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar
  • Dial Gold Antibacterial Soap (although not fragrance-free, some artists recommend it)

USE OINTMENT


For the first day or two, some artists suggest using A+D Original Ointment. Afterward, you can switch to Aquaphor Healing Ointment or Dr. Bronner’s Unscented Organic Magic Balm.

USE LOTION

After the first week, you can switch to a lotion to keep the skin hydrated. Just ensure it is free of fragrances, ethyl alcohol, and additives like colored dyes that can dry out your skin.

Some recommended lotions are:

  • Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion
  • Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion

AVOID 100% PETROLEUM PRODUCTS

It’s best to avoid using products that are 100% petroleum-based, such as original Vaseline, during the initial healing process.

Petroleum products are thick and can trap moisture, preventing proper airflow to the tattoo. This can hinder healing and may even cause the ink to fade. Always choose products that allow your skin to breathe while supporting the healing process.

COMPLICATIONS DURING THE TATTOO HEALING PROCESS

While some discomfort and changes in your tattoo are normal, certain complications can arise. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional.

INFECTION

Improper care of your tattoo can lead to an infection. Signs of infection include:

  • Redness, warmth, and pain around the tattooed area
  • Leaking pus or other unusual fluids

In rare cases, contamination of tattoo equipment or ink can lead to serious bloodborne infections like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, tetanus, or HIV. Non-tuberculous mycobacterial skin infections have also been reported.

ALLERGIC REACTION

If you’re allergic to the ink, you may experience a red, itchy reaction at the tattoo site. Red dyes are most likely to cause allergies, although blue and black dyes can also trigger skin reactions like photosensitivity. Always consult your artist or a healthcare professional if you suspect an allergic reaction.

SCARRING

Improper healing, such as picking at scabs or damage from the needle, can lead to scarring. Scar tissue can be permanent, so it’s important to avoid picking or scratching the tattoo while it heals.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. When should you start aftercare for a new tattoo?
Aftercare begins immediately after your tattoo is completed. Your artist will typically apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment and cover the tattoo with a bandage or plastic wrap. Follow their aftercare instructions on when to cleanse and what products to use.

2. How long should you keep your tattoo covered after your appointment?
Keep the dressing on for the duration recommended by your artist, typically anywhere from a few hours to a few days. The dressing prevents bacteria from entering, absorbs excess ink and fluid, and shields the tattoo from friction or irritation.

3. What is proper aftercare for a new tattoo?

  • Wash your hands thoroughly before removing the covering.
  • Gently cleanse the tattoo with warm water and fragrance-free soap.
  • Pat the skin dry with a soft cloth.
  • Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free and alcohol-free moisturizer.
  • Let your skin breathe by keeping the dressing off after initial care.
  • Follow this routine for the first few weeks and avoid sun exposure until fully healed.

4. What should you avoid after getting a new tattoo?

  • Avoid scratching or picking at your tattoo. Gently patting the area can relieve itching.
  • Avoid tight clothing that may rub or irritate the tattoo.
  • Stay away from bathtubs, hot tubs, pools, or submerging your tattoo in water.
  • Don’t apply sunblock until the tattoo has fully healed, and avoid direct sun exposure during healing.

5. Can you use Aquaphor on a new tattoo?
Yes, it’s generally safe to use a thin layer of Aquaphor Healing Ointment on a healing tattoo. Unlike pure petroleum jelly (like Vaseline), Aquaphor is more breathable and allows air to circulate, aiding the healing process without suffocating the skin.

CONCLUSION

A tattoo is not only a form of personal expression and art, but also a medical procedure. The artist uses a needle to deposit ink beneath your skin, which creates a wound. Anytime the skin is broken, there’s a risk of scarring and infection. Proper aftercare is essential to minimize these risks and promote healthy healing of your tattoo.

23 GORGEOUS RIB TATTOOS FOR WOMEN AND THEIR MEANINGS

It’s no wonder rib tattoos are becoming increasingly popular. For those seeking a more discreet tattoo, the rib area is ideal—it’s easily hidden unless you’re in a swimsuit. This makes the rib cage the perfect canvas to unleash your creativity and go bold.

Additionally, rib tattoos enhance the body’s natural silhouette. A design placed along the side can sit beautifully against the bones, while a tattoo that stretches from the back to the front can accentuate the waistline.

Ultimately, the perfect tattoo is a combination of three key elements: the design, the meaning, and the placement. When these come together, the result is a stunning and timeless piece of art.

In this post, you’ll discover a curated collection of rib tattoos for women that meet all these standards. If you’re in search of ink that will leave a lasting impression, keep reading!

Flower rib tattoos for women

Flowers are a popular choice in feminine tattoos, often symbolizing beauty, positivity, and life. However, the meaning can differ depending on the specific flower.

For a delicate and feminine tattoo on the rib cage, flowers are an excellent choice. You can customize the design to follow the contours of your bones, allowing for a natural flow. Whether large or small, floral tattoos are equally stunning, offering endless possibilities for creativity. Below, you’ll find a collection of beautiful flower rib tattoos for women. Keep scrolling to discover the perfect design for your next ink!

CHERRY BLOSSOM RIB TATTOO

Cherry blossoms are an excellent tattoo choice for women, thanks to both their symbolism and aesthetic appeal.

These delicate flowers bloom briefly, making them a symbol of life’s fleeting nature and a reminder to live each moment to its fullest. Visually, cherry blossoms are small and graceful, yet when they bloom in clusters, they create a stunning display of pink beauty, making them irresistibly charming.

RED FLOWER TATTOO

Despite their deeper meaning, red spider lily tattoos can serve as the perfect motif to express your personality. Their unique shape and striking appearance make them a standout design, offering a bold and memorable way to showcase individuality. Whether for their symbolism or aesthetic appeal, they make a powerful statement.

MINIMALIST FLOWER OUTLINE RIB TATTOO

Outline tattoos are perfect for those who appreciate simplicity over complexity. A small flower rib tattoo like this may not be bold or flashy, but it’s the understated elegance that makes it timeless. Its clean lines and minimalist design ensure it remains a classic, offering subtle beauty that lasts.

SMALL GIRLY FLOWER TATTOO

The skin on the rib cage is quite thin, so if you’re sensitive to pain, opting for a smaller tattoo might be a better choice.

However, small doesn’t have to mean simple. This tiny flower tattoo proves that—it’s packed with intricate details, a realistic portrayal of the flowers’ anatomy, vibrant colors, and thoughtful shading. When all these elements come together, even a small tattoo can be absolutely stunning.

ABSTRACT BLACK FLOWER RIB TATTOO

In nature, flowers are rarely black, which is why I never imagined they could look so striking in black and grey.

A radiologist once examined flowers under an x-ray, and though the images were black and white, every intricate detail was brought to the forefront.

This lily tattoo is inspired by that experiment, offering a perfect blend of simplicity and finely crafted details. It’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate minimalist art with just the right amount of depth.

RED SPIDER LILY RIB TATTOO

Unlike most flowers, the red spider lily carries a darker symbolism. It represents themes of death and reincarnation, making it a powerful choice for those who have a deep understanding of life and its cycles. A red spider lily tattoo is a meaningful and introspective design, perfect for someone who embraces these profound concepts.

SMALL BLACK ROSE RIB TATTOO

Roses are generally symbols of beauty and passion, but their meaning can change depending on their color. A black rose, for instance, is a clever choice. With its lack of color, it leaves more room for interpretation, sparking curiosity and allowing others to form their own meanings.

BLUE ROSE RIB TATTOO

While most roses are pink and red, blue roses are quite rare, making them a unique and striking choice. Beyond their meaning, this tattoo encompasses everything you’d want in body art: intricate details, flawless coloring, shading, and texture. If you’re a sweet girl with an edgy side, this blue rose tattoo is the perfect way to showcase both your gentleness and boldness.

SIMPLE ROSES OUTLINE RIB TATTOO

While most fine line tattoos are typically done in black, they can also feature vibrant colors. For instance, this rib tattoo incorporates pink, red, purple, and green, which could symbolize the various possibilities in life or different facets of the wearer’s personality. The placement along the rib cage also beautifully complements the body’s natural shape, enhancing the overall design.

DELPHINNIUM RIB TATTOO FOR WOMEN

In the language of flowers, delphinium symbolizes joy and encouragement. It is often used to honor the memory of someone who has passed away. Additionally, as the birth flower of July, it holds special significance for those born in that month, making it a meaningful and personal tattoo choice.

Small and simple rib tattoos for women

The rib cage can be a tricky area to tattoo. The bony structure and the angles of the bones make it challenging to place long, straight lines effectively.

That’s why opting for a smaller tattoo is often more ideal. It’s easier to execute, and once you find a meaningful design, the size becomes less important. Below, you’ll find a collection of stunning small rib tattoos for women. Keep scrolling to discover more!

DEVINE ONE-WORD TATTOO

Want to keep it simple? Choose a word that represents your values and who you are. For example, the one-word tattoo “divine” speaks volumes about the wearer’s personality and how she sees herself. It’s not just personal but also empowering, serving as a constant reminder of self-worth and strength.

MOON AND RABBIT RIB TATTOO

In Chinese folklore, the jade rabbit lives on the moon, serving as the companion to the moon goddess. When combined with these two elements in a tattoo, it evokes the tale beautifully.

However, even if you’re not familiar with the story, this small rabbit tattoo remains undeniably cute and girly, making it a charming and whimsical design on its own.

HELPING HAND

A helping hand can make all the difference during tough times, as symbolized in this small rib tattoo. The red thread signifies the strong bond between two people, adding depth and emphasis to the design. Together, the tattoo advocates for mental health, kindness, and the power of friendship, offering a meaningful message of support and connection.

BLOSSOMING RIB TATTOO FORR WOMEN

Every flower begins as a small bud, and this rib tattoo beautifully captures the growth of a flower in four stages. It serves as a reminder that life is a journey, and it’s perfectly okay to start as a beginner. Each stage of growth reflects progress, patience, and the beauty of personal development.

BLACK FISH RIB TATTOO

Fish symbolize wealth, wisdom, and freedom, and a fish tattoo embodies these same qualities. The fluid movement of a fish adds a sense of flow to the design, making it a perfect choice for those who aim to break free from rules and limitations. It’s a tattoo that represents both inner strength and the desire for boundless freedom.

BIRDS RIB TATTOO

There are no strict rules when choosing a motif for rib tattoos, but if you want your tattoo to feel realistic and lively, consider opting for moving animals like birds or fish. Their fluid motion and natural elegance can bring energy and life to the design, making it truly stand out on your ribcage.

SCORPION RIB TATTOO FOR WOMEN

Scorpion tattoos aren’t just for Scorpios; they hold a unique charm that appeals to many. Known for their sting, powerful claws, and poisonous tail, scorpions send a clear message: don’t mess with them. If you want to embody your badass vibes and make a bold statement, a scorpion tattoo is the perfect choice.

Plant tattoos on the rib cage

Plant tattoos often feature leaves, vines, and branches, typically done in black and fine lines. If you lean towards minimalist designs, plant tattoos are an excellent choice.

You can also adjust the composition to fit the natural flow of your bones, making them a perfect decoration for the rib cage. Below is a curated collection of plant rib tattoos for women. Keep scrolling to find the design that suits you best.

PORCELAIN LEAVES RIB TATTOO

In nature, bamboo leaves are green, but by switching the color to blue, this rib tattoo stands out in a unique and striking way. The unconventional color choice adds a bold twist to the traditional design, making it a standout piece of body art.

DAINTY NAME TATTOO

Name tattoos are not only simple but also deeply personal, often representing yourself or a loved one. However, if a full name tattoo feels too specific, consider opting for initials instead. They offer the same simplicity but with a more subtle, less literal touch.

SIMPLE VINE TATTOO ON THE RIB CAGE

Vine tattoos are a popular choice for the rib cage, and for good reason. Their simplicity beautifully complements the shape of the ribs, with the natural curves enhancing the wearer’s charm.

If a small vine tattoo feels too simple for you, consider adding flowers to it. This adds an extra touch of detail and flair, creating a more dynamic and eye-catching design.

LEAVES RIB CAGE TATTOO

Plant tattoos are incredibly popular, and this stunning design under the boob perfectly showcases why. By layering the leaves to follow the natural curves of the body, the tattoo becomes a beautiful decoration that enhances the silhouette. It’s a design that’s not only alluring and unique but also exudes a touch of sexiness, making it a bold and captivating choice.

STEP BY STEP

Take your time. Every small step matters.

FULL SIDE FLORAL TATTOO

Feeling adventurous? Go for a full side tattoo. With ample space, the tattoo artist has the freedom to get creative and design something truly unique.

However, full side tattoos can sometimes feel too intricate or overwhelming. By keeping the entire design in black, this rib tattoo retains its elegance and femininity, offering a bold yet refined look.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, rib tattoos offer a unique canvas for expressing personal meaning and creativity. Whether you opt for simple, minimalist designs or bold, detailed artwork, the rib cage’s shape and contours can enhance the tattoo’s impact. From flowers and animals to meaningful symbols, the possibilities are endless. Ultimately, the best tattoo is one that resonates with you, combines beauty with significance, and complements your body in a way that feels uniquely yours.