Tattoos take 4 - 6 weeks to heal. But @oboogie is right, that looks like waaaaaay too much lotion. Use just the tiniest possible bit to keep the tattoo from drying out.
It looks like you are slathering too much lotion or something on there.. You are smothering it. Just keep it clean and let it heal.
When did you get it? It's hard to tell because of how wet and gooey it looks.
Great insight, thank you. I have an email into the artist to get his design thoughts. It seems like American Traditional typically has color but I think black/gray or black/gray/blue would really look good. Especially given the size of the piece. Bailing on the olive branch idea as well. I think some subtle clouds/wind will be fill it out.