Tattoo aftercare can be confusing, especially if it’s your first tattoo. This page will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your new tattoo and tips for keeping tattooed skin looking great even after healing.
there are also quick tips at the bottom of this page.
Tattoo aftercare starts in the tattoo shop. Once the tattoo is done, your artist will apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or moisturizer over the entire tattooed area. They will then cover the area completely with plastic wrap.
As tempting as it can be to remove the protective cover to look at the tattoo, the plastic wrap should stay on for at least a few hours after the process as this covering protects the open skin from bacteria, sunlight, and from rubbing against clothing. The length of time will depend on the size and location of the tattoo.
After about 2 hours, it is safe to remove the bandage and wash the tattoo. You can then gently wash the tattoo with a mild hand soap and warm water.
The moisturizer/ointment on the skin will come off and the tattoo may appear as if it is oozing ink. This reaction on a fresh tattoo is not a cause for concern as it is just the excess fluid and ink from the tattoo process.
After a thorough washing, you should pat the skin with a clean paper towel and allow it to air-dry for up to an hour. When the area is completely dry, you can apply a thin layer of moisturizer to the tattoo, but leave it uncovered to allow the skin to breathe.
We recommend Eucerin Aquaphor.
For the first few days, the tattooed skin may feel warm to the touch and have a reddish appearance. This is normal and is not cause for concern.
You should continue washing the tattoo regularly throughout the first week when needed. How often washing is necessary will vary depending on your activity levels and environment.
It is best to wash the tattoo with clean hands, not a cloth or towel. Anything else may irritate the skin and prematurely remove any scabs that may have formed. It is important not to pick the scabs or scratch the skin. Any redness or mild swelling usually goes away near the end of the first week but you should continue to avoid submerging the tattoo in water or getting the tattoo wet during the first 3–6 weeks, except for when washing it and keep it out of direct sunlight.
After the first week, any swelling and redness of the area should be gone. Your tattoo may still be flaky and itchy but be sure not to rub or scratch your tattoo during this period. Try patting the area with your hand to alleviate the itching. Also keep in mind that the skin is still sensitive in that area and hasn't yet regenerated fully.
It is during this time that you can switch from Aquaphor to an unscented hand lotion for continued care of the tattoo.
We do our best to provide as much information as possible above but just remember a few main keys