Aftercare is about protecting a fresh tattoo while the skin repairs itself. The studio will tell you when to remove the covering and which product to use; if those instructions differ from a general guide, follow your artist's advice.
Immediately after your tattoo
Remove the plastic wrap around 2 hours after your artist applies it, unless told otherwise. Wash your hands, then gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap for the first 2 days. Pat it dry with a clean paper towel rather than rubbing it with cotton or a used towel.
Daily care routine
Apply a thin layer of the recommended tattoo cream 3–4 times a day for the first 3 weeks, continuing for a total of 6 weeks. Do not keep adding product until the tattoo feels wet or sticky. Keep your hands clean before touching the area and let the skin breathe in clean, loose clothing.
What to avoid
Avoid swimming, baths, chlorinated water and heavy sweating for the first 6 weeks. Avoid sunbathing and tanning sessions for at least 12 weeks. Keep it out of direct sun and do not scratch, pick flakes or pull at scabs. Friction from tight clothing and unclean bedding can also irritate the area.
Products and skin care
Choose simple, fragrance-free products and avoid experimenting with numbing creams, perfume, exfoliants or strong active ingredients on healing skin. After 6 weeks a high-SPF sunscreen may be applied; using it earlier increases the risk of infection and uneven healing.
Lifestyle and environment
Keep pets away from the fresh tattoo and change bedding if an animal sleeps with you. Avoid tanning while the skin is healing. If you notice unusual pain, spreading redness, heat, pus or feel unwell, contact a healthcare professional.