Tattoo Aftercare

Every artist has their own preferred aftercare routine, and it can vary depending on tattoo style and technique. If you’ve been tattooed before, trust your body and what’s worked for you in the past. That said, here’s what I personally follow and recommend for healing:

General Guidelines

  • Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo.

  • Treat your tattoo like an open wound: keep it clean and let it breathe.

When You Get Home

  • Remove the bandage within 1–2 hours. Gently soak it in warm water to help it come off more easily.

  • Wash your tattoo gently using your hands, warm water, and a mild, unscented antibacterial liquid soap. Avoid washcloths or anything abrasive.

  • Pat dry with a clean, soft towel or kitchen roll - never rub.

  • For the first night, you may wrap your tattoo in cling film to avoid it sticking to your bedding.

Cleaning Routine (First Few Days)

  • Wash your tattoo 1–2 times daily (morning and night), or more if it gets dirty.

  • Be careful not to over-wash - too much cleaning can irritate your skin.

Moisturising (Days 1–4)

  • Apply a very thin layer of Palmer’s Cocoa Butter or a tattoo ointment 1–2 times daily, ideally after washing.

  • Use clean hands each time - this is key.

  • Avoid using Vaseline, petroleum jelly, Bepanthen, or Sudocrem, as these can clog pores or slow healing.

Keep Your Skin Hydrated
Drink plenty of water during the healing process - hydrated skin heals better and is less prone to irritation or scarring.

Things to Avoid

  • Picking, scratching, peeling, slapping, or rubbing your tattoo.

  • Soaking your tattoo for at least two weeks - no baths, swimming, or hot tubs (showers are fine).

  • Sun exposure for at least three weeks. After that, apply SPF to protect your tattoo.

  • Saunas or steam rooms.

  • Tight or abrasive clothing, jewellery, or shoes that rub against the area.

  • Letting others touch your tattoo without washing their hands.

  • Curious pets getting too close to your fresh tattoo.

Healing can vary from person to person, so listen to your body. If you have any concerns or questions while your tattoo heals, don’t hesitate to reach out!