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Tattoo Aftercare
My complete guide to caring for a fresh tattoo — everything you need for it to heal without complications and keep its color vibrant.
What you'll need
- —Bepanthen ointment (not spray)
- —Mild soap
- —Paper towels
- —Absorbent pads
- —Adhesive bandage
First 3–4 hours
Blood, plasma, and ink discharge is normal. Mild fever and swelling may occur.
Initial care
Remove the bandage, wash with mild soap and water, let dry for 10–15 minutes. Apply a thin layer of ointment (until it slightly shines), cover with a pad and bandage. Repeat 2–3 times a day for the first 2 days.
Days 5–10
The skin naturally peels — do not pick at it.
Itching
This is normal. Apply ointment and avoid scratching or rubbing the dry skin.
Strictly forbidden
Scrubs, sponges, alcohol-based products.
Restrictions
Showers are fine. But pools, saunas, hot baths, and open water are off-limits for 2 weeks.
Sun exposure
Avoid for 3 weeks, and skip clothing made of fleece, wool, or synthetic materials.
Sunscreen — always.
A tattoo is an open wound
Be careful and look after it closely throughout the healing period.
Extra
Second Skin patch
Apply it the day after your session. If too much fluid builds up underneath, remove it after 24 hours.
How to remove it
Remove in the shower with warm water, in the direction of hair growth. Clean with antibacterial soap.
Before applying a new patch
Treat with chlorhexidine (alcohol-free), leaving a 1–2 cm gap from the tattoo edge, with no folds or air bubbles.
Wear for 5 days. Then remove and moisturize the skin 1–2 times a day for the next 2 weeks.