Tattoo Aftercare
Proper aftercare protects your investment and keeps your tattoo looking its best. These are general guidelines — always follow the specific instructions your artist gives you.
Important: Follow your artist's personal aftercare instructions first. This page is general guidance, not medical advice. If you notice signs of infection, contact a healthcare professional.
What to expect, week by week
Keep the tattoo clean. Gently wash with mild, fragrance-free soap and pat dry. Apply a thin layer of the recommended ointment.
Light peeling and flaking is normal. Keep it moisturized and do not pick or scratch.
The surface heals but deeper layers are still settling. Keep moisturizing and protect from the sun.
Once fully healed, always apply sunscreen to keep colors and lines looking their best.
Do
- Wash gently with clean hands and fragrance-free soap.
- Apply a thin layer of the recommended aftercare product.
- Keep the area clean, dry, and loosely covered as advised.
- Let scabs and flakes fall off naturally.
Don't
- Avoid picking, scratching, or peeling the healing tattoo.
- Avoid soaking in baths, pools, or hot tubs until healed.
- Avoid direct sun exposure or tanning beds.
- Avoid over-applying ointment — a thin layer is enough.
Activities while healing
Swimming
Avoid soaking until fully healed to prevent irritation and infection.
Sun exposure
Keep it out of direct sun while healing; use sunscreen afterward.
Working out
Give a fresh tattoo time before heavy activity to avoid stretching and sweat irritation.
Moisturizing
Keep it lightly moisturized — never soaked — throughout healing.
Questions about healing?
Reach out anytime — we're glad to help you take care of your new tattoo.