After getting your tattoo, it's crucial to follow the aftercare instructions from your artist.

Following tattoo aftercare instructions is critical for several key reasons:

  1. Preventing Infection: The tattooing process involves needles that penetrate the skin, creating a wound. Proper aftercare keeps this wound clean, preventing bacteria from causing infections that could lead to health issues and negatively affect the appearance of the tattoo.

    Signs of infection include: redness, swelling, tenderness at the site, red streaks leading from the tattoo, elevated body temperature, or pus. If you notice any of these symptoms, promptly contact your tattoo artist and consult a physician for appropriate care.

  2. Ensuring Proper Healing: Proper aftercare promotes the right environment for healing. Keeping the tattoo clean, moisturized, and protected helps it heal efficiently and reduces the risk of complications such as excessive scabbing or scarring.

  3. Preserving Tattoo Quality: Good aftercare practices help maintain the vibrancy and clarity of the tattoo ink. Failing to follow aftercare instructions can lead to fading, blotchiness, or uneven healing, which can distort the intended design.

Tattoo Aftercare:

The most important step for your new artwork

Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

Tattoo Day

Initially, keep the tattoo covered for at least 2-3 hours. With clean hands, carefully remove the bandage and wash the tattoo thoroughly using antibacterial soap. This helps remove any excess ointment, blood, and plasma.

After washing, gently pat the tattoo dry with a clean cloth. Make sure the tattoo is completely dry before applying a thin layer of a healing ointment like Aquaphor. Repeat these steps 3-4 times daily to keep the tattoo clean and hydrated.

Healing: Day 2-3

Continue washing you tattoo thoroughly using antibacterial soap, gently pat the tattoo dry with a clean cloth. When the tattoo is completely dry, apply a thin layer of a healing ointment like Aquaphor. Repeat these steps 3-4 times daily to keep the tattoo clean and hydrated.

During the first two critical days of healing, treat your tattoo as an open wound. Keep it exposed to air and avoid rewrapping, soaking in water bodies like bathtubs or pools, and direct sunlight. Refrain from activities that may expose the tattoo to dirt or bacteria, such as gardening, and ensure that pets and children do not touch the area.

Healing: Day 4-7

From days 4 to 7, your tattoo will begin to dry out, potentially forming scabs or becoming flaky. At this stage, switch from using Aquaphor to a plain, unscented lotion such as Eucerin, Lubriderm, or plain unscented cocoa butter to maintain moisture without over-saturating the skin. It's essential to let the tattoo heal naturally over the next 2-3 weeks, resisting the urge to pick at or scratch it. Allow scabs and flakes to detach on their own to avoid scarring or infection.