While your tattoo heals, wash it with warm water and mild soap, pat it dry and apply a thin layer of the product your artist recommended. Don't pick the scabs or scratch the area. Keep it out of the sun and avoid soaking it in water for long periods. Your artist's aftercare instructions matter more than advice from the internet.
Your daily routine
Looking after a tattoo is simpler than it seems. Follow the same short routine, usually morning and evening, sometimes more often. Your aftercare instructions will tell you how often.
- Wash your handsAlways, before you touch the tattoo.
- Wash the tattooWith warm water and mild soap, using the palm of your hand rather than a sponge.
- Pat it dryWith a disposable paper towel. Don't rub.
- Let it air-dryLeave it uncovered for a few minutes.
- Apply your aftercare productA thin layer, barely visible on the skin.
What to put on it
Your artist will usually tell you which products to use. The list is generally short:
- a mild soap with no fragrance or exfoliating particles;
- a healing cream or balm for the first few days;
- an ordinary fragrance-free moisturiser once the peeling starts.
You don't need ten different pots of cream. A mild soap and one product from my aftercare instructions work better than any kit.
Why the layer should be thin
A thick layer of cream won't make it heal faster. The skin underneath gets soggy, and the scabs go soft and come away along with the ink. The skin should look moisturised, not greasy. If it's shiny, blot off the excess with a tissue.
Scabs, peeling and itching
After a few days, the skin starts to feel tight and peel, as it can after a tan. Sometimes thin scabs form. Don't pick, rub or scratch them: the ink comes away with them, leaving pale patches in the tattoo.
- if it itches, pat the skin next to the design with your palm;
- don't take long, steamy showers;
- don't pull at flakes that are coming away, however tempting it is.
How a tattoo changes day by day is covered in “Tattoo healing timeline”.
Sun and water
A short, warm shower is fine. Avoid baths, pools, the sea and saunas until your tattoo has healed. Keep a fresh tattoo out of the sun too: cover it with loose clothing and only start using sunscreen once the skin has healed.
For a guide to when you can resume different activities, see “Back to normal after a tattoo”.
Clothes, sleep and everyday life
- loose cotton clothing, with no rough seams or elastic over the design;
- clean bedding for the first few nights;
- bag and backpack straps well away from the tattoo;
- pets kept away from the fresh tattoo;
- don't shave the area until it has healed.
Evening check
Before bed, run through this quick list:
For the most common slip-ups, see “Tattoo aftercare mistakes”.
Frequently asked questions
Aftercare questions often come up in the first few days. Can't find your question? Message me on Telegram or Instagram. I reply personally.
Can I put Vaseline on my tattoo?
Thick petroleum jelly doesn't let much air through, and the skin underneath gets soggy. It's better to use the product your artist recommended.
Can I wipe it with alcohol or hydrogen peroxide?
No. They dry out and damage fresh skin. Only use an antiseptic if your artist or doctor has recommended one.
How long does aftercare last?
Usually until the scabs and peeling are gone, which for most people takes a few weeks. Your artist's aftercare instructions give the exact time.
Why a paper towel rather than an ordinary one?
Bacteria live on cloth towels, and the fibres catch on the scabs.
Can I exercise?
Light activity, yes, as long as the area doesn't get rubbed or sweaty. More on this in “Back to normal after a tattoo”.
