Aftercare
The First Day
Getting a new tattoo is only half the journey—how you take care of it during the healing process dictates how vibrant and crisp your final piece will look. Follow these steps to ensure your tattoo heals safely and beautifully.
Your fresh tattoo is essentially an open wound, and proper protection right out of the gate is critical.
-
Leave the bandage on: Follow your artist’s specific instructions regarding your covering. If you have a second-skin adhesive (like Saniderm or Tegaderm), it can typically stay on for 3 to 5 days. If you have a traditional wrap, it usually comes off after a few hours.
-
Wash your hands first: Always wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap before touching your healing tattoo.
-
The initial wash: Once you remove the bandage, gently wash the tattoo using lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free liquid soap. Use your clean fingertips to gently wash away any plasma, blood, or excess ink.
-
Dry carefully: Do not rub the tattoo with a bath towel, as towels can harbor bacteria and pull at the healing skin. Instead, gently pat the area dry with a clean paper towel.
Healing Process
During this phase, your skin will start to dry out, flake, or peel like a mild sunburn. This is completely normal.
-
Moisturize sparingly: Apply a very thin layer of recommended aftercare ointment or a fragrance-free, alcohol-free lotion (such as Lubriderm or specialized tattoo balm). Less is more: your skin needs to breathe, so rub the lotion completely in until it doesn't look greasy or shiny.
-
Frequency: Moisturize 2 to 3 times a day, or whenever the tattoo feels tight and dry.
-
DO NOT PICK OR SCRATCH: As the tattoo peels and scabs, it will itch intensely. Picking at scabs or peeling skin can pull out the ink, cause patchiness, and lead to scarring or infection. If it itches, gently slap or tap the area instead.
Special Attention
The Golden Rules: What NOT to Do
-
❌ No soaking: Avoid baths, hot tubs, swimming pools, the ocean, or saunas for at least 2 to 3 weeks. Submerging a fresh tattoo can cause severe infection and ruin the ink.
-
❌ No direct sunlight or tanning beds: UV rays break down fresh ink and fade tattoos rapidly. Once healed, always protect your tattoo with a high-SPF sunscreen to keep it looking sharp for years.
-
❌ Avoid tight, abrasive clothing: Wear loose, breathable clothing over your new tattoo to prevent friction, snagging, and irritation.
Subscribe for Updates
Be the First to Know about Available Bookings