Tattoo Aftercare Guide

Your artist will cover your tattoo with a protective film (cling film or second skin).

If cling film was used, remove it after 3-4 hours. If second skin was applied, leave it on for 24-48 hours.

After removing the wrap, wash your hands thoroughly and gently clean the tattoo with lukewarm water.

Use a mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap — avoid harsh chemicals, alcohol or hydrogen peroxide.

Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Do not use cloth towels — they can leave fibres and harbour bacteria.

Allow the tattoo to air dry for a few minutes, then apply a thin layer of fragrance-free moisturiser.

Wash your tattoo 2-3 times daily with lukewarm water and mild soap.

Pat dry gently with a paper towel after each wash — never rub.

Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free moisturiser or aftercare cream recommended by your artist.

Avoid over-moisturising — too much cream can clog pores and slow healing.

Do not touch your tattoo with unwashed hands.

Avoid tight clothing — prevent friction and irritation over the tattooed area.

Avoid intense exercise for the first 72 hours — sweat can negatively impact healing.

From day 3-4, light scabbing and peeling will begin — this is completely normal.

Never pick, pull or scratch the scabs — this can pull out ink and cause uneven healing.

If you feel itchy, gently tap or lightly slap the area — never scratch.

During this phase the tattoo may appear faded or cloudy — don't worry, the ink beneath will become clear once healing is complete.

Continue moisturising but apply in thin layers only.

Do not submerge your tattoo in pools, the sea, hot tubs or baths for the first 2-3 weeks.

Protect from direct sunlight — UV rays can damage the ink during the healing period.

Do not use sunbeds.

Do not apply makeup, perfume or scented lotions on the tattoo (fragrance-free moisturiser only).

Do not cover with bandages or adhesive tape (unless advised by your artist).

Reduce alcohol and tobacco consumption — these weaken your immune system and slow healing.

Do not allow pets to come into contact with the tattooed area.

Days 1-3: Redness, mild swelling and tenderness are normal.

Days 3-7: Scabbing begins, itching may increase.

Days 7-14: Peeling continues, tattoo may appear faded.

Days 14-30: Surface healing completes, tattoo begins to look clearer.

Days 30-90: Deep tissue healing continues — continue to treat your tattoo with care.

Total healing time varies depending on the individual, size and placement of the tattoo.

Normal: Mild redness, swelling, clear or slightly yellowish fluid, itching, peeling.

Concerning: Redness that spreads, increasing pain, yellow-green pus, bad odour, fever.

If redness increases rather than decreasing after the first few days, contact your artist or a healthcare professional immediately.

Use sunscreen — once fully healed, high-SPF sunscreen will preserve your tattoo's vibrancy.

Keep your skin moisturised — regular moisturiser use helps maintain colour brightness.

Drink plenty of water — internal hydration directly affects skin health.

Maintain a balanced diet — protein, vitamins and minerals support healing.

Monitor your tattoo regularly — if you notice fading or distortion, consult your artist about a touch-up.

Hands, fingers, feet: These areas experience heavy friction and water contact. Fading or ink loss is normal and not covered under guarantee.

Joint areas (wrist, elbow, knee): Healing may take longer in high-movement areas.

Ribs and chest: Extra care is needed for sensitive areas.

If you are considering a tattoo in these areas, your artist will inform you of potential outcomes beforehand.

How long does my tattoo take to heal? Surface healing takes 2-4 weeks; full healing takes 4-12 weeks.

When can I expose my tattoo to sunlight? After full healing, always with SPF 30+ sunscreen.

Can I shower? Yes, but protect from direct water flow and keep it brief. Do not take baths.

Can I exercise? Avoid for the first 72 hours, then light exercise is fine while protecting the tattooed area.

My tattoo looks faded, is this normal? Fading during the healing period is normal. It will look clearer once fully healed. Touch-ups within 30 days are complimentary.