Is My Tattoo Supposed to Peel? What You Need to Know

If you’ve just gotten a tattoo and you notice it starting to peel, don’t panic—this is a completely normal part of the healing process. Peeling is your body’s natural way of shedding dead skin and revealing the fresh ink underneath. Still, it can feel a little alarming if you’ve never experienced it before. Let’s break down why tattoos peel, what’s normal, and what you should do to keep your tattoo looking its best.

Why Do Tattoos Peel?

When you get a tattoo, the needle places ink into the second layer of your skin (the dermis). The outer layer (the epidermis) naturally begins to regenerate and shed as your body heals. That shedding looks like peeling or flaking skin—similar to how your skin might peel after a sunburn.

This doesn’t mean your tattoo is “falling off.” The ink stays in the dermis, safe beneath the healing skin.

When Does Peeling Start and How Long Does It Last?

• Timing: Most tattoos start peeling around days 3–7 after the session.

• Duration: The peeling phase usually lasts about a week, sometimes a little longer depending on your skin type, the size of your tattoo, and how well you care for it.

• After Peeling: Once peeling slows down, your tattoo may still look slightly dull or cloudy until the skin fully regenerates (this is called the “milky phase”).

  
  

What to Do (and Not Do) When Your Tattoo Peels

✅ Do:

• Moisturize gently with a tattoo-safe, fragrance-free lotion or ointment.

• Keep it clean by washing with mild, unscented soap and lukewarm water.

• Be patient—your skin needs time to heal.

🚫 Don’t:

• Pick or scratch at the peeling skin (this can pull out ink and cause patchy spots).

• Over-moisturize (too much ointment can suffocate the skin and delay healing).

• Expose it to the sun or soak in water (like swimming pools, hot tubs, or long baths) until it’s fully healed.

Signs Something’s Wrong

While peeling is normal, you should watch out for signs of infection or irritation:

• Redness spreading outside the tattoo area

• Severe swelling or pus-like discharge

• Intense pain that worsens over time

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to reach out to your tattoo artist for guidance and consult a doctor if needed.

Final Thoughts

Tattoo peeling is nothing to worry about—it’s just your body doing its job. With the right aftercare, your tattoo will settle in beautifully and last for years to come.

I’m always here to answer questions and guide clients through the healing process. That said, this article is for general information only and should not be considered medical advice. Every body heals differently, and if you ever experience severe pain, unusual swelling, or any signs of infection, be sure to see a licensed healthcare professional.