Wondering how long does a thigh tattoo take to heal? Most thigh tattoos take about 2-4 weeks to heal, but there are some that can take longer. The majority of tattoos do eventually heal, but it does take some time and persistence.
Allergies, discomfort and swelling, and occasionally even infection, can all be brought on by tattoo inks. This is why it’s critical to learn how to properly care for a thigh tattoo as soon as you get one.
More information on thigh tattoo aftercare is provided in the paragraphs that follow.
How Long Does a Thigh Tattoo Take to Heal?
So how long does it take a thigh tattoo to heal?
Typically, it takes around six weeks for a thigh tattoo to heal completely.
Healing could be slower or faster, though, depending on the tattoo’s placement and size.
The tattoo will typically progressively deteriorate with time and become less noticeable. The tattoo might need to be removed if any issues arise, like an infection.
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Factors That Affect the Healing Process
Even if you follow the perfect aftercare routine, there are factors that can affect the healing process.
Size
It’s no secret that larger tattoos take longer to heal, especially those that require you to sit for long hours or even multiple sessions.
Because there is more skin to care for, there is also more potential for infections, friction, and other exposures.
Location
Different locations will also affect the thigh tattoo healing process.
Back of Thigh
Since the skin can’t breathe properly if you’re always sitting, these are frequently the most difficult to heal. Additionally, you’ll need to adjust for a few weeks while the skin heals if you typically sleep on your back.
Upper/Front Thigh
Tattoos on the upper thighs are very popular right now. These are generally simpler to keep clean because you don’t have to worry about sitting on it all the time and you can see it when you look down.
Outer Thigh
Tattoos on your outer thighs typically sit higher on your hip and closer to your waist. It can be challenging to avoid rubbing your skin against the waistband of your clothing because of this.
Read More: How Long Do Hand Tattoos Take to Heal?
Tips to Heal Your Thigh Tattoo
Here are a few steps to help your thigh tattoo heal properly so that you can enjoy your new artwork without any problems.
Keep It Clean
Ivory or Dove mild antibacterial soap and warm water are ideal for cleaning tattoos at least once per day. Rubbin’ alcohol can also be used to clean the area; however, you must thoroughly rinse with water after using it before reapplying ointment.
Keep It Bandaged
To prevent your tattoo from rubbing against anything and irritating and itching you for the first two weeks after getting it, keep it bandaged up with some gauze and medical tape.
To ensure that it stays clean, change the bandage once daily or each time you take a shower, whichever comes first.
Stay Out of the Sun
Particularly if you have a new tattoo, you should stay out of the sun until it has healed. You don’t want to run the risk of burning it in the sun.
Additionally, avoid tanning booths and spray tans because they can change the color of your ink and even hasten its fading.
Apply Ointments
A+D or Bacitracin should be used to treat the tattoo once per day. By preventing it from drying out, this will aid in the healing process.
Apply one coat at a time, and if necessary, apply another after letting the first coat dry for about ten minutes.
Stay Cool
For at least a week following your tattoo, refrain from using hot tubs and showers. Hot water will dry out the area and could even hasten the cracking or peeling of the skin.
The area around your tattoo will feel less itchy and swollen if you use cold water because it will help keep your skin moisturized.
Don’t Pick at It
Even though it might be tempting, you must fight the urge to itch a bug bite that ends up on your brand-new tattoo. Try taking a warm bath or shower to see if that helps calm things down if you feel like you have an itch that just can’t be satisfied by scratching.
Keep Your Hands Off It
You’ll need to become adept at using just one hand if you get your tattoo on your arm.
As much as you can, refrain from touching the area where your tattoo is, and most definitely do not pick at it! If you can’t resist the urge to touch it but want to make sure you don’t spread any dirt or germs from your hands onto the area, wash your hands first.
Don’t Pick at Scabs
Scabs are a normal part of healing and will eventually fall off on their own without your assistance.
The only thing picking a scab does is make you more irritated, which results in more scratching and itching. They will disappear on their own if you just let them be.
If you are looking for some thigh tattoo ideas, please read our guide on Thigh Tattoo for Women.
What Are the Risks and Benefits of Thigh Tattoos?
There are several specific risks associated with thigh tattoos. Infection, bleeding, and scarring are just a few of these dangers.
Thigh tattoos also make it more challenging to wear specific kinds of clothing. There is also a minuscule chance that the tattoo ink will trigger an allergic reaction.
The fact that thigh tattoos can be very stylish and fashionable is one of their advantages. Thigh tattoos can also be used to express oneself or to remember a special occasion or person, increasing one’s sexual attractiveness, self-esteem, and confidence.
Summary: How Long Does a Thigh Tattoo Take to Heal
That’s all about thigh tattoo healing.
After getting a tattoo, the outer layer of skin will typically heal within 2 to 3 weeks.
While it may look and feel healed, it can take as long as 6 weeks for the skin below a tattoo to truly heal.
Ask your doctor or tattoo artist if they would be willing to have the tattoo removed if you have a tattoo that you are worried about healing too quickly.
Read More: How Long Does An Ashley Piercing Take to Heal?
FAQs about Thigh Tattoo Healing
How Long Do Tattoos Take to Heal before Swimming?
You should wait for your tattoo to fully heal — which can take at least 2 to 4 weeks — before swimming in any kind of water.
How Long for Arm Tattoo to Heal?
The visible part of your tattoo will gradually heal over four to six weeks.
Can I Wear Pants After a Thigh Tattoo?
Wearing jeans after you have a thigh tattoo is not recommended－sweat pants or shorts are much better choices.
How to Heal Thigh Tattoo?
Don’t place another bandage on top; instead, apply a layer of antibacterial/Vaseline ointment twice daily. Before reapplying the Vaseline/antibacterial ointment, gently wash the tattoo area twice daily with soap and water.
