Aftercare Advice

Tattoo Aftercare Advice

Caring For Your New Tattoo

Your tattoo will move through several natural healing phases as the skin settles, renews, and seals the artwork beneath. Proper aftercare is one of the most important factors in achieving a clean, vibrant healed result.

Every tattoo heals slightly differently depending on the individual, the location of the tattoo, and lifestyle factors. Following the guidance below will help your tattoo heal comfortably while preserving the quality of the artwork.

The First 24 Hours

Your tattoo is essentially a fresh wound and should be treated with care during the first day.

Keep The Dressing On

Leave the dressing in place for the amount of time advised during your appointment. The dressing helps protect the tattoo from friction, bacteria, and environmental contamination.

Wash Your Hands First

Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your tattoo.

Clean The Tattoo Gently

When advised to remove the dressing:

• Use lukewarm water and a mild fragrance-free soap.
• Gently clean the area.
• Do not scrub.
• Allow the water to do the work.

Dry Carefully

Pat the tattoo dry with clean kitchen roll.

Avoid rubbing the area or using bath towels, which can irritate healing skin and harbour bacteria.

Apply Aftercare

Allow the tattoo to air dry briefly before applying a thin layer of your recommended aftercare product.

Some redness, warmth, or sensitivity is completely normal during this stage.

Days 2–7: Early Healing

During the first week your tattoo may feel:

Tight
Slightly tender
Dry
Shiny

You may also notice:

Light peeling
Mild itching
A thin dry layer forming over the surface

These are all normal parts of the healing process.

Moisturise Lightly

Apply a thin layer of your recommended aftercare product two to three times daily.

Use only enough to keep the skin comfortable and supple. Applying excessive amounts can prevent the tattoo from breathing properly.

Avoid The Following

During this stage avoid:

Scratching
Picking
Swimming
Long baths
Direct sunlight
Tight clothing
Abrasive fabrics rubbing against the tattoo

Days 7–21: Settling Phase

As healing continues, the outer layer of skin renews itself.

It is common for the tattoo to appear:

Slightly dull
Cloudy
Frosted

This is temporary and forms part of the natural healing process.

Continue to:

Moisturise lightly
Keep the area clean
Avoid excessive friction

As the skin settles, clarity and vibrancy will gradually return.

What’s Normal During Healing?

Many clients worry unnecessarily because they don’t know what to expect.

The following are usually normal healing signs:

✓ Mild redness

✓ Light scabbing

✓ Peeling

✓ Itching

✓ Tightness

✓ Slight cloudiness

✓ Dry flaky skin

These signs indicate that your skin is repairing itself.

When To Contact Us

If something doesn’t feel right, we are happy to help.

Please contact the studio through our contact form and include:

A clear photograph
The date of your appointment
A brief description of the issue

The more information you provide, the more accurately we can advise you.

Long-Term Tattoo Care

Once your tattoo has fully healed, protecting it from ultraviolet (UV) exposure is the most important thing you can do to preserve its appearance.

Use Sun Protection

Apply SPF 30 or higher whenever your tattoo will be exposed to sunlight.

Consistent UV protection helps:

• Reduce fading
• Maintain strong contrast
• Preserve colour saturation
• Keep fine details sharper for longer

Keep Skin Healthy

Healthy skin helps tattoos continue looking their best.

Regular moisturising and sensible sun protection can significantly improve the long-term appearance of your artwork.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I shower after getting a tattoo?

Yes. Brief showers are fine. Avoid soaking the tattoo in baths, hot tubs, swimming pools, or open water during healing.

Why is my tattoo peeling?

Peeling is a normal part of the healing process. Allow the skin to shed naturally without picking.

Why does my tattoo look cloudy?

Many tattoos go through a temporary cloudy or frosted stage while new skin forms over the tattoo.

Can I exercise?

Light exercise is generally fine, but avoid activities that cause excessive friction, stretching, or prolonged sweating around the tattoo.

When is my tattoo fully healed?

Surface healing typically occurs within several weeks, although deeper layers of skin continue settling for longer.

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