Tattoo Aftercare
Proper aftercare is essential for the healing and longevity of your new tattoo. Follow these guidelines to ensure the best results.
Immediate Aftercare (First 24 Hours)
Keep the Bandage On
Leave the initial bandage on for 2-4 hours. For saniderm or second skin bandages, follow your artist's specific instructions (typically 24-48 hours).
First Wash
After removing the bandage, gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and fragrance-free, antibacterial soap. Use your clean hands, not a washcloth.
Early Healing Phase (Days 2-7)
Wash 2-3 Times Daily
Continue washing your tattoo 2-3 times a day with mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Avoid soaking in baths, swimming pools, or hot tubs during this phase.
Moisturize Regularly
After 2-3 days, switch from ointment to a fragrance-free, alcohol-free lotion. Apply a thin layer 3-5 times daily or whenever the tattoo feels tight or dry.
Later Healing Phase (Weeks 2-4)
Continue Moisturizing
Keep moisturizing your tattoo with fragrance-free lotion 1-2 times daily until the peeling stops completely and the tattoo is fully healed.
Sun Protection
Once fully healed (around 4 weeks), always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen when exposing your tattoo to the sun. Sun damage can fade and blur tattoos over time.
Recommended Products
Cleansers
Recommended:
- Dr. Bronner's Unscented Soap
- Dial Antibacterial Soap (Fragrance-Free)
- H2Ocean Foam Soap
Ointments (First 2-3 Days)
Recommended:
- Aquaphor Healing Ointment
- A&D Original Ointment
- After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer
Lotions (After Day 3)
Recommended:
- Lubriderm Fragrance-Free Lotion
- Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion
- Hustle Butter Deluxe
Important Warning
Never use petroleum jelly (Vaseline), alcohol-based products, or heavily scented lotions on a healing tattoo. Avoid exposing your new tattoo to direct sunlight, swimming pools, hot tubs, saunas, or baths until fully healed (approximately 4 weeks).
Aftercare Quick Reference
Keep this handy during your healing process
First 24 Hours
- Keep bandage on for 2-4 hours
- Wash gently with mild soap
- Apply thin layer of ointment
- Avoid water immersion
Days 2-7
- Wash 2-3 times daily
- Switch to lotion after day 2-3
- Expect peeling and itching
- No scratching or picking
- Avoid swimming and baths
Weeks 2-4
- Continue moisturizing
- Protect from sun exposure
- Avoid swimming until fully healed
Signs of Infection
- Increasing pain, swelling, redness
- Pus or excessive discharge
- Fever or chills
- Foul odor from tattoo
Questions?
We're here to help with your aftercare
If you have any questions or concerns about your tattoo healing process, please don't hesitate to contact us.