It’s important to follow a rigid aftercare routine to make sure you give your tattoo the best possible chance of healing. If you followed our tips on how to prepare for a tattoo, then the final stage is to learn how to look after it properly!

Below we have outlined a timeline of how we would recommend looking after your new tattoo. If you have any questions at all, please email or call us and we will be here to help you.

Day 1

On day 1, you may notice blood, clear plasma and/or ink oozing from your fresh tattoo – but this is nothing to worry about! You may also experience warmth or swelling after having your tattoo done, which again is nothing to worry about and is a normal side effect of having a tattoo.

After a few hours, take off the clear wrapping and keep your tattoo clean with fragrance-free soap.

Days 2-3

Day 2 and 3 is when you will notice your tattoo is beginning to start the healing process. You’ll be able to see this as you’ll notice thin scabs beginning to form. No matter how itchy or irritating they may feel – do not pick them! Instead, wash the area twice a day with fragrance-free soap, and then use a moisturiser that is alcohol-free and perfume-free. You may notice a little ink wash off your skin at this point, but this is completely normal.

Days 4-6

Day 4 and 6 is where you will notice the redness beginning to fade and scabbing continue to form. Don’t forget – don’t pick them! Continue to wash the area twice a day with fragrance-free soap and apply a soothing moisturiser that is alcohol and fragrance free to nourish the area.

Weeks 1-2

During week 1 and 2, the healing process will continue with your scabs falling off naturally. Having itchy skin at this point will be normal as the skin is healing, so be sure to keep your tattoo aftercare lotion within easy reach so that you can apply it several times a day.

At this point, the redness and swelling should have dramatically reduced. If you’re concerned about any redness or swelling however, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Weeks 2-4

During week 2 and 4, make sure to continue keeping the area clean and moisturised to keep the skin healthy and glowing. The hydration routine and aftercare products should be continued until your skin is fully healed.

Long-term care

Your skin may take months to completely heal after having a tattoo, especially if the tattoo is large or has a lot of shading/detail.

Your tattoo should look the way that you envisioned after about 3 months.

Be sure to use protective skin products, especially when your tattoo is exposed to the sun and UV rays. Use sunscreen to help keep the area as vibrant and fresh as possible, for as long as possible!

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