Healing

Tattoo Aftercare Guide

Instructions for Optimal Healing

Apply these core practices throughout the healing process to keep your tattoo healthy and vibrant

Keep it clean
  • Always wash your hands before touching or cleaning your tattoo.
  • Gently cleanse the area with warm water and a fragrance-free, mild anti-bacterial liquid soap.
  • Pat dry with a clean paper towel — avoid fabric towels and rubbing.

 

Moisturise properly
  • Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free, aftercare cream 2–3 times daily.
  • Avoid over-moisturising, which can clog pores and prolong healing.
  • Continue moisturising until the skin is fully healed (around 3–4 weeks).

 

Protect from friction & contamination
  • Wear loose, breathable clothing over the tattoo.
  • Use freshly washed bedding, clothing, and towels.
  • Disposable paper towels are ideal for drying the area.

 

Avoid sun & water exposure
  • Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight for at least the first 2–3 weeks.
  • Do not soak the tattoo in water (baths, pools, hot tubs, oceans) for 2–4 weeks.
  • Showers are fine — keep them short and lukewarm.
  • After healing, use SPF 30+ sunscreen to protect the tattoo.

 

Exercise with care
  • Avoid heavy exercise or sweating for the first 5–7 days.
  • For the first week, minimise friction and pressure on the tattooed area.

 

 

Healing Timeline

Day 0 – immediately after your tattoo session

  • Keep your bandage on for at least 2–5 hours, or up to 24 hours if using second skin (e.g. Dermalize Pro).
  • Remove it in the shower with warm water to help loosen the adhesive.
  • Gently rinse away plasma and ink; pat dry with a paper towel.

Tip: If you have sensitive skin, consider removing the bandage a bit sooner.

 

Days 1–3 – early healing phase

  • Wash the tattoo twice daily, or as needed if exposed to dirt.
  • Allow it to dry completely before applying aftercare cream.
  • Use only thin layers — your skin should be slightly shiny, not greasy.

 

Days 4–14 – peeling & ongoing recovery

  • Skin may peel and flake — this is normal.
  • Continue applying unscented lotion 1–2 times daily to relieve dryness and itching.
  • Your tattoo may look dull or uneven while healing — this is temporary.

 

Avoid

✘ Scratching, picking, or peeling skin

✘ Coconut oil, shea butter, Vaseline, or scented lotions

✘ Using exfoliants, bath sponges, or razors over the tattoo

✘ Tight clothing or fabrics that stick to the area

✘ Re-bandaging the tattoo (unless advised for work or hygiene reasons)