Tattoo Aftercare Guide

Bandage care

• If using cling film, keep your bandage on for at least 2–5 hours as advised.
• If using second skin, keep it on for 1–3 days as advised.
• Remove the second skin in the shower with warm water to help loosen the adhesive; tug it off gently to avoid unnecessary irritation.

Important:

• If you notice irritation, redness, or a change in skin texture, remove the second skin.
• If the second skin starts peeling off by itself, remove it immediately, clean your tattoo, and don’t cover it again. 

 

Keep it clean

• Always wash your hands before touching or cleaning your tattoo during the healing phase.
• Gently cleanse the area with your hands using warm water and a fragrance-free, mild antibacterial liquid soap.
• Avoid using any scrubs or loofahs during the healing phase.
• Wash the tattoo twice daily, or as needed if exposed to sweat, dirt or tight clothing.
• Pat dry with a clean paper towel — avoid fabric towels and rubbing.

 

Moisturise properly

• Hydrate yourself. Drinking water is the most effective way of keeping your skin well moisturised and healthy.
• Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free cream 2–3 times daily. E.g. Aveeno, Cerave.
• Avoid over-moisturising or using heavy oils on the skin, which can clog pores and prolong healing.
• Continue moisturising to relieve dryness and itching 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 heavy exercise or sweating for the first 5–7 days.

 

Avoid sun & water exposure

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

 

Expect

• Skin may peel and flake — this is normal.
• Your tattoo may look dull or uneven while healing — this is temporary.

 

Avoid

✘ Alcohol for the first 24 hours

✘ Scratching, picking, or peeling skin

✘ Vaseline, scented lotions, and heavy oils on the skin

✘ Using exfoliants, bath sponges, loofahs, or razors over the tattoo while healing

✘ Tight clothing or fabrics that stick to the area

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

 

Touch ups

Once your tattoo is healed, after 3-4 weeks, please send a moisturised, high-quality photo to hello@manitattoo.com or DM me on Instagram. I will be able to advise you if you need a touch-up (usually free). 

If you experience any signs of infection or allergic reaction, please seek medical advice.