After Care
Your Daily Tattoo Aftercare Guide
Congratulations on your new tattoo!
While the inking process is done, your responsibility is just beginning. Once you leave the studio, it’s up to you to care for your tattoo so it heals properly and keeps looking great for years to come.
Tattoo aftercare can feel a little overwhelming at first, so we’ve broken it down into a simple day-by-day guide you can follow easily.
Note: This guide is intended for healing tattoos without a second skin. If your artist used a protective film, be sure to follow their specific instructions.
Day 1 – Just Inked
For the first three days, your tattoo is essentially an open wound and should be treated with great care to prevent infection.
Around 1–3 hours after your session, gently remove the bandage applied by your artist. Let the tattoo breathe. Clean the area with warm water and mild soap, then pat dry with a paper towel (avoid using cloth towels).
In some cases, your artist might suggest rewrapping the tattoo—especially if you’re in a dirty environment or the tattoo is on a part of your body that may rub against fabric or surfaces.
Tattoo ink can stain bedsheets and clothes, so use clean bedding you don’t mind getting marked.
Day 2 – Keep It Clean
Always use your hands (not sponges or cloths) to wash your tattoo.
Keep the tattoo clean and dry. Do not soak it in water.
During showers, gently wash the tattoo with mild soap no more than twice a day.
Avoid hot water. Use cold or lukewarm water instead.
Until your tattoo is fully healed, stay away from bathtubs, pools, and the sea. Also, minimize sun exposure and avoid unnecessary touching.
Day 3 – Moisturize with Balm
Now it’s time to start moisturizing the tattoo. Make sure your hands are clean before washing or applying any balm.
After cleaning, apply a thin layer of the balm your artist recommends.
Don’t use too much balm. Avoid thick or clumpy buildup on the skin.
If you’re healing multiple tattoos, use separate balms to avoid cross-contamination.
Everyone’s skin heals differently. If your skin dries out quickly, apply balm more frequently. 2–3 times a day is typical, plus once before bed.
Days 4–15 Repeat and Maintain
Continue the same cleaning and moisturizing routine as Day 3. Larger tattoos may require extra healing time.
Until your tattoo fully scabs and peels, it remains vulnerable to infection. Keep it clean and protect it from dirt or bacteria.
What you may experience:
Some swelling, itching, flaking, or minor oozing is normal—these are signs your body is healing.
Do not scratch or peel the tattoo. Doing so can damage the design and cause infection.
If fluids like plasma, ink, or blood appear, gently dab them away with a clean paper towel.
Some people also experience “tattoo flu,” a common reaction where you may feel tired or unwell for a few days. You can manage the symptoms with rest and over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.
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Time to bring it to life!
Whether it’s your first tattoo or you’re planning to add something truly personal to your collection, our skilled artists are here to turn your ideas into art you’ll wear with pride.