Tattoo Aftercare

Everything you need to look after a fresh tattoo, from the first night to the months after it has healed. If something doesn't look right or you're unsure about anything, write to me before you worry.

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Thank you for trusting me with your tattoo. Proper aftercare is essential to ensure the best possible healing and long-term results. Every person's skin heals differently, but following these guidelines will help your tattoo heal beautifully.

Immediately After Your Appointment

Your tattoo will be covered with either a protective bandage or a second-skin, depending on your skin and the location of the tattoo.

Remove the second-skin 4 days after your tattoo appointment under warm water.

Cleaning Your Tattoo

Once the bandage has been removed:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your tattoo.
  • Gently cleanse the area using lukewarm water and a fragrance-free, antibacterial soap.
  • Do not scrub the tattoo.
  • Pat the area dry with a clean paper towel or allow it to air dry. Avoid rubbing with a bath towel.

Moisturizing

Once your tattoo is completely dry, apply a very thin layer of a fragrance-free moisturizer. I like Hustle Butter, but you can use Aquaphor as well.

Apply moisturizer 2 to 3 times daily as needed. Your skin should feel hydrated but never overly saturated.

Less is more. Using too much ointment or lotion can slow the healing process.

During the Healing Process

For approximately 3 to 4 weeks:

  • Do not scratch, pick, or peel any flakes or scabs.
  • Avoid soaking your tattoo in baths, pools, hot tubs, lakes, or the ocean.
  • Avoid saunas and steam rooms.
  • Avoid direct sun exposure.
  • Wear clean, loose-fitting clothing whenever possible.
  • Avoid excessive friction on the tattooed area.
  • If possible, avoid intense exercise that causes excessive sweating or stretching of the tattoo during the first week, especially for larger pieces.

Light peeling and itching are a completely normal part of healing.

Sun Protection

Once your tattoo has fully healed, protect it with a broad-spectrum sunscreen whenever it will be exposed to sunlight.

Sun protection is the best way to preserve the detail, contrast, and longevity of your tattoo.

What Is Normal?

During healing, you may experience:

  • Mild redness
  • Slight swelling
  • Tenderness
  • Light peeling
  • Itching
  • A dull or cloudy appearance before the tattoo settles

These are all normal parts of the healing process.

Questions?

If you have any concerns during the healing process, don't hesitate to reach out. I'd much rather answer a question than have you worry or guess.

Thank you again for trusting me with your story. I hope you enjoy your new tattoo for many years to come.