Aftercare

After getting a new tattoo

Proper aftercare is essential for preventing infections and ensuring your ink heals well. Right after your session, your artist will likely cover the tattoo with a bandage or wrap to protect it from bacteria. You’ll want to keep this covering on for a few hours (or as advised) before gently cleaning the area with unscented, mild soap and lukewarm water.

During the healing process

It’s important to keep your tattoo clean and moisturized. Avoid soaking it in water, so no swimming, hot tubs, or long baths for at least a couple of weeks. Showers are fine, but you’ll want to avoid directly spraying the tattoo with water. Sun exposure can also affect the healing process and cause fading, so be sure to keep it covered or use sunscreen once it’s healed.

As your tattoo heals

You’ll notice that the vibrant colors and fine details start to become clearer. Full healing can take a few weeks to a couple of months depending on the size, placement, and your body’s natural healing speed. Staying consistent with cleaning and moisturizing is key, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your artist if you notice any signs of infection, like redness, swelling, or pus. Proper aftercare can make all the difference in keeping your tattoo looking sharp and vibrant for years to come!

Steps to Perfect Aftercare

• Leave the Bandage On: Right after getting the tattoo, your artist will cover it with a bandage or wrap to protect it from bacteria. Keep this on for the time recommended by your artist, usually a few hours.
• Gently Clean the Tattoo: Once you remove the bandage, wash the area gently with unscented, mild soap and lukewarm water. Be gentle and avoid scrubbing the tattoo. Pat it dry with a clean towel, don’t rub.
• Apply Moisturizer: Once the tattoo is dry, apply a thin layer of a recommended, fragrance-free moisturizer or ointment (such as Aquaphor or a tattoo-specific lotion) to keep the skin hydrated.
• Avoid Submerging in Water: For the first couple of weeks, avoid soaking your tattoo in water. No swimming, baths, or hot tubs. Showers are fine but avoid spraying the tattoo directly with water.
• Avoid Sun Exposure: Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight during the healing process, as UV rays can cause fading and delay healing. Once healed, applying sunscreen to your tattoo will help preserve the ink.

Following these steps will ensure your tattoo heals properly and stays vibrant!

Aftercare recommendations

Healing Stage	Recommended Care	Do’s	Don’ts
Day 1-3: Initial Healing	Keep the tattoo clean and dry. Gently wash with mild, fragrance-free soap and pat dry. Apply a thin layer of ointment.	Keep the tattoo clean and dry. Gently wash with mild, fragrance-free soap and pat dry. Apply a thin layer of ointment.	Don’t pick at the skin, avoid soaking in water, and don’t expose to direct sunlight.
Day 4-14: Peeling Stage	Switch to a light, fragrance-free lotion. Expect flaking and scabbing. Keep moisturizing regularly.	Moisturize multiple times daily, wear loose clothing, and stay hydrated.	Avoid scratching, don’t peel the skin, and skip tight clothing that may rub on the tattoo.
Week 3-4: Early Recovery	Continue moisturizing as peeling subsides. The tattoo may appear dull or cloudy, but that’s normal.	Apply sunscreen when going outdoors, continue to keep the skin hydrated.	Don’t expose to tanning beds or intense sunlight. Avoid vigorous physical activity that causes excessive sweating.
Month 1-2: Full Healing	Your tattoo should be mostly healed, but it’s important to keep it moisturized and protect it from the sun.	Use SPF 30+ sunscreen on the tattoo, stay hydrated, and maintain regular moisturizing.	Don’t skip sunscreen or expose your tattoo to harsh elements without protection.
Long-Term Care	Maintain hydration and sun protection to preserve tattoo vibrancy.	Maintain hydration and sun protection to preserve tattoo vibrancy.	Avoid tanning beds, direct sun exposure, or neglecting skin care.