Tattoo Aftercare Guide
Getting a tattoo is only half the journey—the other half is making sure it heals beautifully. A well-cared-for tattoo will look sharper, last longer, and be something you can show off with pride.
Here’s everything you need to know about taking care of your fresh ink.
The first few hours
- Your artist will apply a protective film or bandage—leave this on for the recommended time (usually a few hours, or overnight).
- Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the tattoo.
- When you remove the covering, wash the tattoo gently with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap. Pat it dry with a clean paper towel—never rub.
It’s normal to see a little ink or plasma at this stage. Don’t worry, that’s just your skin doing its job.
The first week
This is the most important phase of healing:
- Wash gently once or twice daily with unscented soap.
- Apply a thin layer of unscented moisturiser or aftercare ointment (too much can suffocate the skin).
- Wear clean, loose clothing to avoid rubbing.
- Avoid exercise that causes excessive sweating, as sweat can irritate the tattoo.
It will likely feel sore, red, or warm—this is normal.
What to avoid
- No soaking: skip baths, pools, hot tubs, and saunas for at least 2–3 weeks.
- No sun: UV light can damage the healing tattoo and fade it. Keep it covered or apply sunscreen once healed.
- No scratching or picking: as the tattoo scabs and peels, it can itch. Resist the urge to pick—this can cause patchy healing or scarring.
Weeks 2–4
By now the tattoo should be peeling like a light sunburn. Keep up gentle washing and moisturising. The itchiness will pass. Once the scabs are gone, your tattoo will begin to settle into its healed look.
Continue to avoid sun exposure and swimming until it feels fully smooth and healed.
Long-term care
A tattoo is for life—taking care of it long term helps it stay vibrant:
- Moisturise regularly to keep your skin healthy.
- Always use sunscreen (SPF 30+) when exposing tattoos to the sun.
- Stay hydrated and look after your skin—it’s the canvas your art lives on.
When to seek advice
Mild redness, tenderness, and scabbing are all part of normal healing.
If you notice excessive swelling, pus, or pain that gets worse instead of better, contact your tattooist or a healthcare professional.
Final thoughts
Aftercare might feel like a chore, but it’s worth it. Taking a little extra time ensures your tattoo heals crisp and clear—just as it was designed.
Treat your new ink with care, and it will stay looking bold and beautiful for years to come.