Tattoo Aftercare

Short answer: A new tattoo heals like an open wound. On the first day you leave the wrap your artist applied on for as long as they told you, keep the tattoo clean, and don't scratch it or pick at it. For the first two weeks you wash it gently and apply a thin layer of moisturizer. The surface usually heals in 2–4 weeks; full healing can take longer. The best aftercare instructions are the ones your tattoo artist gives you.

How your tattoo turns out depends not only on the day it was done but also on the care you give it in the weeks that follow. Even a well-done tattoo can fade or heal patchy if it is poorly looked after.

Note: This article is for general information. Your artist's instructions for you always come first. If you have a clear problem, see a healthcare professional.

The first day: what should you do?

1. Keep the wrap your artist applied on as instructed. How long it stays on depends on the material used. Ask your artist how long to keep it.
2. Don't touch the tattoo unless your hands are clean.
3. Once you take the wrap off, gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, unscented soap. Don't scrub; clean it softly with clean hands.
4. Pat it dry with a paper towel or a clean cloth. Don't rub.
5. Apply the product your artist recommends in a very thin layer. Too much makes it harder for the skin to breathe.

The first week: common mistakes

• Scratching: Itching is normal. Instead of scratching, you can tap it lightly.
• Picking scabs: Scabs should fall off on their own. Picking them can cause color loss and scarring.
• Using too much cream: A thick layer of cream can suffocate the tattoo.
• Soaking it: The sea, pools, hot tubs and long baths are not recommended while it heals.
• Sun exposure: A fresh tattoo is very sensitive to the sun.
• Wearing tight clothes: Clothing that rubs can make healing harder.

Healing stages

• The first few days: Redness, mild swelling, tenderness, oozing fluid
• Week 1: Itching; light scabbing begins
• Week 2: Peeling, a dull look
• Weeks 3–4: The surface is largely healed and the colors sharpen up
• 1–3 months: The deeper layers heal and the tattoo settles

These timelines vary from person to person and with the placement and size of the tattoo.

Daily life after a tattoo

• Exercise: It is generally advised to avoid intense workouts that cause sweating and friction for the first few days. Ask your artist how long to wait.
• Sea and pool: Not recommended until healing is complete.
• Sun: Even after healing, regular sun protection keeps your tattoo's color.
• Alcohol: Because it can affect blood flow and healing, check with your artist about the first few days.

When should you contact your artist or a doctor?

Get advice from the right person without delay if you notice:

• Redness that gets worse or spreads as the days go by
• Severe swelling, increasing warmth or pain that keeps getting worse
• Foul-smelling, dark or pus-like discharge
• A fever or feeling generally unwell

Why might you need a touch-up?

After healing, some lines or areas of shading may look faded. This is more likely on areas that move and rub a lot, such as the fingers, wrists, hands and feet. Most artists offer a short check-up and a touch-up after healing.

The first step in aftercare: choosing the right artist

Tattoo aftercare starts with the quality of the work. Choose an artist who uses sterile equipment, gives clear aftercare instructions and shows their healed work. In the TattooVerseCo Artists and Studios sections you can look at portfolios, reviews and studio hygiene information.

Frequently asked questions

How many days does tattoo aftercare take?

Surface healing usually takes 2–4 weeks. Deep healing can take several months.

Which cream should I use for tattoo aftercare?

It depends on the type of tattoo and your skin. Use the product your artist recommends. Unscented products suitable for sensitive skin are usually preferred.

Can I shower on the first day after getting a tattoo?

It depends on the wrap your artist used. Ask your artist how and when to shower. A short wash with lukewarm water is usually recommended.

What should I do if my tattoo scabs?

Don't pick the scab. Wait for it to fall off on its own and use the recommended product in a thin layer to keep the skin moisturized.

Why has my tattoo lost color?

Possible causes include too much sun, picking scabs, poor aftercare or natural fading on certain parts of the body. A touch-up usually fixes it.

Good aftercare starts with the right artist. Browse portfolios and reviews in the TattooVerseCo Artists section and find the right person for you.