TATTOO AFTERCARE
Simple advice to help your tattoo heal properly.
Follow these steps and always listen to any specific advice from your artist.
01
THE FIRST DAY
Your artist will cover your tattoo before you leave the studio and tell you when to remove the covering. Once removed, wash your hands, gently clean the tattoo with warm water and mild, fragrance free soap, then pat it dry with a clean paper towel.
Apply a very thin layer of your recommended aftercare product, the smallest amount needed to cover the whole tattoo. Keep the tattoo clean and avoid touching it unnecessarily.
02
WHILE IT HEALS
Wash your tattoo regularly with clean hands, warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Pat it dry and apply a very thin layer of your recommended aftercare product.
Your tattoo may become dry, itchy or flaky as it heals. Don't scratch or pick it - let the skin heal naturally. Wear clean, loose-fitting clothing and avoid anything that rubs against the tattoo.
03
WHAT SHOULD I AVOID?
While your tattoo is healing, avoid swimming, baths and soaking the tattoo. Keep it out of direct sunlight and don't use sun cream on it until it has fully healed.
Avoid tight clothing, excessive rubbing and anything likely to introduce dirt or bacteria. Don't scratch, pick or peel the tattoo - even when it gets itchy, patting the tattoo with clean hands can relieve itching.
04
CAN I EXERCISE?
Light exercise is generally fine, but avoid anything that causes excessive sweating, rubbing or stretching around the tattooed area. If an exercise pulls or irritates the tattoo, give it a rest while it heals.
Keep the tattoo away from shared gym equipment where possible, wear clean loose-fitting clothing and shower afterwards. Avoid swimming and saunas until the tattoo has fully healed.
05
WHEN IS MY TATTOO HEALED?
Your tattoo will usually look mostly healed within 2-3 weeks, although the deeper layers of skin can take longer to fully recover.
Once the skin is no longer scabbing, flaking, shiny or tender, you can gradually return to your normal routine. Keep moisturising when needed and use a high-SPF sun cream on healed tattoos to help protect them long term.
06
WHAT'S NORMAL WHILE IT HEALS?
Some redness, tenderness, swelling, itching and light flaking can be normal during the healing process, particularly during the first few days.
If you're concerned about how your tattoo is healing, contact your artist or the studio and we'll be happy to advise. If you develop severe or worsening pain, spreading redness, significant swelling, pus, fever or feeling unwell, seek medical advice.
