Tattoos can be sore for several days after the tattoo session. How long a tattoo remains sore depends on several factors, including the size and placement of the tattoo, the tattoo artist’s experience and technique, and your individual pain tolerance.

It’s normal for a tattoo to feel sore and swollen during the first few days after the session. The pain can vary from person to person, but it’s often described as a burning sensation or as if the skin feels fatigued. Over-the-counter pain relief can be used, and keeping the tattoo clean and moisturized can help reduce soreness.

During the first few days after your tattoo session (and generally throughout the first month), you should keep the tattoo clean and moisturized to reduce soreness. It’s also a good idea to avoid physical activities that cause sweating, as sweat can increase the risk of infection.

After the first few days, the soreness should begin to subside. It’s normal for a tattoo to feel slightly sore for up to a week after the session. If the soreness persists or worsens, you should contact your tattoo artist or a medical professional for advice.

In some cases, tattoos may remain sore for a longer period, especially if the tattoo is large or placed on a particularly sensitive area of the body. It’s important to follow your tattoo artist’s aftercare instructions and to contact them if you experience unusual symptoms such as swelling, redness, or discharge.

It’s important to remember that everyone’s pain tolerance is different, and what feels painful for one person may be less painful for another. Always talk to your tattoo artist about any concerns regarding pain and follow their aftercare advice to help minimize soreness.