You sat through hours of needlework. Don’t ruin it in the first two weeks. Aftercare isn’t complicated, but it matters more than most people think.
The First 24 Hours
- Leave the bandage on for 2-4 hours minimum, or as your artist instructs
- Wash gently with lukewarm water and fragrance-free antibacterial soap
- Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Not a bath towel. Not your shirt.
- Apply a thin layer of aftercare ointment. Thin. Not a thick paste.
Days 2 Through 14
Washing
- Clean 2-3 times daily with lukewarm water
- Use fragrance-free, antibacterial soap only
- Pat dry every time. Never rub.
Moisturizing
- Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free lotion 2-3 times daily
- We recommend: Aquaphor (first few days), then unscented lotion
- If it looks shiny, you’ve used too much
What to Avoid
- Swimming - pools, ocean, hot tubs. All of it.
- Direct sunlight - and tanning beds, obviously
- Picking or scratching - it will itch. Leave it alone.
- Tight clothing over the tattooed area
- Heavy workouts - sweat irritates fresh tattoos
- Soaking - quick showers only, no baths
The Healing Timeline
Days 1-3: Redness, some fluid and ink seepage. Normal.
Days 4-7: Peeling starts. It looks alarming. It’s fine. Don’t pick.
Days 8-14: Peeling completes. Skin looks dull and slightly cloudy.
Weeks 3-4: Fully healed. Colors settle. Lines sharpen.
When Something’s Wrong
Contact us immediately if you see:
- Excessive redness or swelling after day 3
- Pus or unusual discharge (clear fluid is normal; green/yellow is not)
- Fever or feeling unwell
- Raised rash or hives around the tattoo
- Heavy scabbing
Long-Term Care
Your tattoo is permanent, but that doesn’t mean it’s maintenance-free:
- Sunscreen - SPF 30+ on healed tattoos when exposed to sun
- Moisturize - Keep the skin hydrated
- Touch-ups - We offer free touch-ups within 6 months if needed
Questions during healing? Call or text us. We’d rather hear from you early than see a problem later.
