The Ultimate Guide to Tattoo Aftercare: Keep Your Ink Looking Fresh and Healthy
As a tattoo artist, one of my top priorities is not just creating beautiful, meaningful art, but also making sure your tattoo heals properly. Aftercare is essential for both the longevity of your tattoo and your health. Taking proper care of your new tattoo can be the difference between vibrant, lasting art and a faded or infected piece. Let me walk you through the best steps for proper tattoo aftercare to keep your ink looking fresh and bold for years to come.
1. Immediate Aftercare: First 24 Hours
The moment you leave the shop, your aftercare routine begins. Once your tattoo is finished, I will cover it with a Dermshield or cling wrap to protect it from bacteria and dirt. Leave this wrap on for at least 3–4 hours, or about 4 days if using Dermshield, unless I give you specific instructions otherwise. After removing the wrap, follow these steps:
What to do:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your tattoo.
- Gently wash the tattooed area with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Avoid using a washcloth or sponge—your hands are the best tool.
- Pat the area dry with a clean paper towel. Don’t rub!
- Allow your skin to breathe for a few minutes before applying a thin layer of tattoo-specific ointment (I recommend Aquaphor or Hustle Butter).
What to avoid:
- Do NOT rewrap your tattoo unless instructed to do so.
- Avoid submerging the tattoo in water (no swimming or soaking in baths for at least two weeks).
- Avoid picking, scratching, or touching the tattoo as it starts to scab.
2. Days 2-6: The Initial Healing Stage
During these next few days, your tattoo will start to form scabs, and you may notice some peeling. This is totally normal, but it’s crucial to handle your skin carefully to prevent scarring or pulling the ink out of place.
What to do:
- Continue to wash your tattoo twice a day using mild soap and water. Be gentle.
- After washing, apply a thin layer of unscented, alcohol-free lotion or aftercare ointment. You don’t need too much—just enough to keep the skin moisturized but not greasy.
- Wear loose, breathable clothing to avoid friction on the tattoo.
What to avoid:
- Avoid direct sunlight on your tattoo during the healing process.
- Resist the urge to pick at scabs or peeling skin. Let your body do the healing naturally.
- Avoid activities that cause excessive sweating as it can irritate the healing skin.
3. Weeks 1-2: Continued Care
By this stage, your tattoo will still be healing but should be less sensitive. You’ll notice that the peeling has subsided, and the scabs are falling off naturally. This is when you really want to focus on keeping your tattoo clean and moisturized, as it’s still vulnerable to infection and damage.
What to do:
- Continue washing the tattoo and applying a fragrance-free lotion or ointment daily.
- You can start applying sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) if your tattoo will be exposed to the sun, but avoid sun exposure as much as possible.
- Be mindful of your hydration—healthy skin heals better, so drink plenty of water.
What to avoid:
- Keep avoiding baths, pools, and long soaks until the skin is fully healed.
- Don't expose your tattoo to intense physical activity that might cause irritation.
4. Weeks 3-4: Long-Term Care
At this point, your tattoo should be mostly healed, but that doesn’t mean aftercare is over! Taking care of your tattoo in the long term will help it stay sharp and vibrant.
What to do:
- Continue using a moisturizing lotion regularly to keep your tattoo looking fresh and prevent dryness.
- Make sunscreen a permanent part of your routine. Sun exposure is the number one cause of tattoo fading, so always protect your ink with SPF, even after it’s healed.
- If any areas of your tattoo look raised or irritated, reach out to me so we can address it early.
What to avoid:
- Avoid tanning beds—they're harsh on your skin and will fade your tattoo over time.
- Be wary of exfoliating over your tattoo, especially in the early months.
5. Ongoing Maintenance
A tattoo is a permanent piece of art, but it needs lifelong care to stay looking its best. Tattoos will naturally fade over time due to skin shedding and exposure to the elements, but you can slow this process down with proper care.
Best practices:
- Keep your skin hydrated and moisturized. Healthy skin holds ink better.
- Reapply sunscreen frequently, especially if you live in a sunny area or spend a lot of time outdoors.
- Schedule touch-ups as needed. Some fading is inevitable, but a quick touch-up can bring your tattoo back to life.
Final Thoughts
I care about each piece I create, and I want you to love your tattoo for a lifetime. Remember, the way you care for your tattoo in the first few weeks will determine how it looks for years to come. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to me—your artist. Together, we can make sure your new ink heals beautifully!
