Tattoo Aftercare

Follow this guide and your tattoo will heal cleanly, hold its detail and settle into its final look. If anything looks wrong, message the studio before treating it yourself.

First 24 hours

• Leave the wrap on for the time your artist tells you (usually 2–24 hours depending on which film we used).
• Wash your hands, remove the wrap gently, then wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free antibacterial soap. Do not scrub.
• Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Do not use a fabric towel, it snags.
• Leave it to air for 30 minutes, then apply a very thin layer of unscented aftercare balm.

Days 2–14

• Wash the tattoo 2–3 times a day the same way (wash, pat dry, thin layer of balm).
• Expect scabbing and flaking in week 2. Do not pick, scratch or peel. Let it come off in its own time.
• Wear loose, clean clothing over the tattoo. Change bedsheets and don’t sleep on top of it.
• Keep pets, gym equipment and dirty environments away from the fresh tattoo.

Do not, for 2 weeks minimum

• Do not soak: no baths, swimming pools, hot tubs, sea, saunas or steam rooms.
• Do not sunbathe or use sunbeds. UV bleaches fresh ink and delays healing.
• Do not shave over the tattoo.
• Do not use fragranced lotions, petroleum jelly, coconut oil, or “healing” products your artist did not recommend.

Long term

• Once fully healed (usually 4 weeks), use SPF 30+ on the tattoo any time it’s in the sun. UV is the number one cause of tattoo fade.
• Moisturise regularly to keep the skin healthy.
• Book your free touch-up within 3 months if you want to sharpen any small spots.

When to call us or a doctor

Some redness, swelling, warmth and clear/yellow “weep” in the first 3–5 days is normal. Message the studio if:

• Redness spreads outward past the tattoo after day 5.
• You see green or foul-smelling discharge.
• You develop a fever, chills or feel systemically unwell.
• The tattoo has raised, itchy welts that don’t settle (possible ink allergy).

If it looks like infection or a serious reaction, do not wait; contact your GP or NHS 111.

Questions about your specific piece? Message the studio or call 0151 345 1400.