Tattoo Aftercare Instructions
Leg tattoo by Night Owl
Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience, but the work doesn't end once the ink is on your skin. Tattoos are a form of art and self-expression, and like any work of art, they require care and attention to stay vibrant throughout the years. To maintain the brightness and health of your new tattoo, it's essential to follow a comprehensive post-tattoo aftercare routine at home.
The Importance of Proper Tattoo Aftercare
Tattoo aftercare is essential for various reasons. Proper care ensures that tattoos heal properly, which can prevent infections or any other complications. It also helps maintain the quality of the tattoo, keeping the colours vibrant and the lines sharp.
This detailed tattoo aftercare checklist provides best practices that you can use in the days following your tattoo session to ensure your tattoo heals properly and looks amazing for years to come.
Understanding the Tattoo Healing Process
How long does the tattoo healing process take? Generally, it can take anywhere from 2-4 weeks, depending on factors like tattoo complexity and ink saturation.
It's important to remember that everybody's skin is different, but if you follow these easy tattoo aftercare instructions you increase the odds of your tattoo healing well.
Abstract flower tattoo by Night Owl
Immediate Aftercare
Second Skin Application
After each tattoo, I apply a second skin (a clear, adhesive, protective film). This acts as a barrier against bacteria and prevents rubbing or irritation.
How Long to Leave the Second Skin On
Keep the second skin on for 2-4 days unless it becomes excessively uncomfortable or starts peeling off prematurely. It's normal to see some fluid (ink, plasma and lymph) accumulate under the film - this is part of the healing process.
Removing the Second Skin
Remove it after 2-4 days, or if the second skin starts peeling off on its own. If you realise that it starts filling up with water under the shower, remove it immediately.
Removal steps
Clean Hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
Warm Water Soak: To make the removal easier, you can stand under a warm shower for a few minutes. This will loosen the glue.
Peel Carefully: Starting from one corner, gently peel the second skin back. Pull it slowly and in a horizontal motion, parallel to your skin, not upward. If the film feels stuck, continue soaking with warm water.
Rinse the Area: After removal, rinse the tattoo gently with lukewarm water to wash away any residue.
First Wash
After removing the second skin, gently wash your tattoo with fragrance-free, mild, antibacterial soap (normal tap water will do as well). Use your hand (not a washcloth) and lukewarm water. Pat the area dry with a clean paper towel.
Make sure to have a clean towel after coming out from the shower, and fresh bedsheets.
How To Care for a New Tattoo?
Clean Hands
Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling your tattoo. This simple step is crucial to avoid introducing bacteria to the tattooed area, which can cause infections.
Keep the Artwork Clean
Wash the tattoo area in the mornings and evenings with water. We recommend using a mild soap, such as a baby soap, to avoid irritation. Gently dry the tattoo by tapping it with a tissue or a soft, clean cloth. Avoid rubbing as this can damage the skin and the ink. Treat the artwork with care, as if it were an open wound.
Apply Cream
Use a recommended tattoo aftercare cream, such as Bepanthen blue or red, 4-10 times a day. Don't let the artwork dry up!
If you are unsure what might be the best cream for your skin type, ask your pharmacist for suggestions. Bepanthen blue absorbs faster but needs to be applied more regularly, while Bepanthen red is heavier which gives a longer effect but can also block air flow if applied too heavily and this may also attract dirt, lint, etc. more easily. Hustle Butter is another popular option, known for its natural ingredients and effectiveness.
Sun Protection
Protect the artwork from the sun and UV rays for the first month. After two weeks you may apply sun screen if necessary. UV rays can cause the colours to fade and damage the skin, slowing the healing process. Even after your tattoo is healed, we recommend protecting your ink from the sun so that it continues to look sharp over the years.
Abstract bear skull tattoo by Night Owl
What Should You Avoid When You Have a Fresh Tattoo?
Tight Clothing
Wear loose clothing to prevent friction and allow your tattoo to breathe. Tight clothing can rub up against the tattoo, causing irritation and potentially damaging the artwork. Opt for soft, breathable fabrics.
High Intensity Exercise
The skin needs time to heal, so it is recommended to wait at least one week after getting a new tattoo before going to the gym. This can vary between individuals, but avoiding excess friction or accidents is recommended for the healing of your tattoo. Light exercises like walking can be a good alternative during this period, ensuring your skin doesn't face unnecessary strain.
Swimming or saunas
Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs or saunas for, at least, the first two weeks after getting a new tattoo. Shower regularly, but remember to apply cream afterward with clean hands.
Over-saturation
Don't oversaturate your tattoo with cream. The tattoo needs enough oxygen to heal. If you notice small bumps on the skin, this may be a sign that you are using too much cream. Applying a thin layer is usually sufficient to keep the skin hydrated.
Scratching
Resist the urge to scratch your tattoo. As it heals, it may become itchy, but scratching can damage the skin and the tattoo. Let any scabs fall off naturally to avoid damaging the ink.
Direct sun exposure
Avoid direct sunlight as it can damage the healing of the skin, and in long term also fade the artwork. Once healed, always use sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your tattoo from UV rays.
Abstract heart tattoo by Night Owl
Lastly, if you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact your tattoo artist for tattoo aftercare advice. They are there to help ensure that your tattoo heals well and to answer any questions that come up. Thank you for your trust and thank you for your skin! :)
Tips for Long-Term Tattoo Maintenance
Once your tattoo has healed, maintaining it's appearance involves regular care. Here are some long-term tips:
Hydration: Keep your skin moisturised to maintain the tattoo's vibrancy.
Sun Protection: Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 whenever your tattoo will be exposed to the sun.
Healthy Lifestyle: A healthy diet and regular exercise can improve skin health, keeping your tattoo looking great.
Touch-Ups: Depending on the tattoo and its location, you might need touch-ups over the years to keep it looking fresh.
By following this checklist and paying close attention to the do's and dont's in your tattoo aftercare routine, you can continue to enjoy a vibrant, healthy tattoo that stands the test of time.
Tattoo aftercare is a blend of proper hygiene, protection, and patience. Your tattoo is a lifelong commitment, and caring for it properly will ensure it remains a beautiful work of art on your body.
