Is it normal for my new tattoo to look faded?

It is normal for a new tattoo to look faded at first, as the skin goes through a process of peeling and healing. After the initial scabbing of the skin, it peels to reveal a new layer of skin.

Because the tattoo process wounds the skin, it first goes through a period of healing before the tattoo properly reveals itself. The ink may initially look faded, but after several days, it begins to darken as the damaged skin peels off.

To care for freshly tattooed skin, be sure it is wrapped and coated in antibiotic ointment after you leave the parlor. For the next three to six weeks, keep your skin clean, and wash it three to four times daily with antibacterial soap.