HOW DO I CARE FOR MY NEW TATTOO?

Tattoo Aftercare: How to Keep Your New Ink Looking Its Best

Getting a new tattoo is exciting, but proper aftercare is essential to ensure your artwork heals beautifully and stays vibrant for years. Whether this is your first tattoo or your tenth, understanding how your skin heals and how to care for it will make a huge difference.

How Long Does a Tattoo Take to Heal?

Tattoo healing happens in two main stages. The surface of the skin usually heals within 10 to 14 days. During this time, your tattoo might feel tender, appear slightly red, or begin peeling and flaking. Beneath the surface, deeper skin layers continue to heal over several months, allowing the ink to fully settle.

Even after the visible signs of healing fade, your tattoo is still completing its recovery internally. This is why consistent aftercare throughout the process is so important.

Caring for Your New Tattoo

After your session, your tattoo artist will provide a detailed aftercare card with instructions tailored to your tattoo. Below, you’ll find our full aftercare guide, which covers everything from protecting your skin in the first hours to long-term care tips to keep your tattoo vibrant.

The approach to aftercare can vary depending on whether your artist uses second skin (Tegaderm/Saniderm) or plastic wrap/cling film.

If You’re Using Second Skin

When your tattoo is covered with a protective second skin bandage, it acts as a barrier while your skin begins to heal.

For the first five days, keep the bandage on and avoid removing it, even if fluid collects underneath. Only remove it early if it starts leaking, as this can allow bacteria in. During this period, avoid heavy sweating, swimming, or soaking the tattoo.

After day five, remove the bandage slowly under lukewarm running water, peeling gently from the edges. Clean the tattoo gently with fragrance-free antibacterial soap and pat dry with a clean paper towel. Apply a thin layer of Bepanthen cream two to three times daily for 2–3 weeks, keeping the skin moisturized but not over-saturated.

If You’re Using Plastic Wrap

Some artists prefer plastic wrap, which generally stays on for only a few hours. After this initial period, remove the wrap and wash the tattoo gently with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap. Pat dry carefully, and begin applying a thin layer of Bepanthen cream 2–3 times daily.

Daily care continues for 2–3 weeks, with a focus on keeping the tattoo clean and lightly moisturized. Avoid swimming, soaking, or exposing the area to excessive sweat during this critical healing period.

Dos and Don’ts for a Healthy Tattoo

Caring for a tattoo isn’t complicated, but certain habits are crucial. Wash your tattoo gently once or twice a day, always using mild, fragrance-free soap. Apply moisturizer sparingly - too much cream can suffocate the skin. Wear loose, breathable clothing to avoid irritation and friction.

On the other hand, avoid picking, scratching, or peeling your tattoo. Resist swimming, tanning beds, and prolonged water immersion for at least 2–3 weeks. Heavy workouts that stretch or rub the tattoo can interfere with proper healing, so it’s best to stick to low-impact activities until the skin has recovered.

Typical Healing Timeline

During the first week, your tattoo may feel tender and show mild redness. Light peeling or scabbing is normal. By the second week, itching and flaking may occur, so continue moisturizing regularly. Surface healing is generally complete by weeks three to four, though deeper skin layers continue to recover, meaning the tattoo is still settling.

Working Out and Physical Activity

While your tattoo is fresh, avoid activities that cause heavy sweating or friction. Low-impact movement is usually fine, as long as the tattoo area remains clean and dry. Protect your tattoo from direct sun exposure during healing - sunscreen is only recommended once the skin has fully closed.

Long-Term Care and Sun Protection

Once healed, always protect your tattoo with broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) whenever it’s exposed to UV rays. This helps maintain the color and detail of your artwork for years to come.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Most tattoos heal without complications, but some warning signs require attention. Contact your tattoo artist or a doctor if you notice increasing redness, warmth, yellow or foul-smelling discharge, fever, or streaking around the tattoo. Prompt care can prevent infection or other issues from worsening.

Taking the time to follow proper aftercare ensures that your tattoo heals safely and looks incredible for years to come. Treat your new ink with care, be patient, and enjoy your art!