Tattoo Aftercare Tips
There are a lot of misconceptions about tattoo aftercare so I’ve written this guide to help clear things up. Proper aftercare is crucial for ensuring your tattoo heals well, stays vibrant, and lasts for years to come. While every artist may have slight variations in their aftercare advice, these tips cover the essentials to support your skin’s natural healing process.
Why Tattoo Aftercare Matters
Your tattoo is technically an open wound when fresh. Without proper care, you risk infections, scarring, and premature fading. Healing typically takes about two weeks, though it may be quicker for fine-line tattoos and a bit longer for highly saturated designs.
Step-by-Step Tattoo Aftercare
1. Protect Your Tattoo (First 4–24 Hours)
After your session, I’ll apply a bandage or wrap to protect your fresh tattoo from bacteria:
• Traditional Bandage: Leave it on for at least 4 hours or until the next morning.
• SecondSkin (or similar bandages): This medical-grade, breathable adhesive film can stay on for up to 5 days. It’s waterproof and helps protect against bacteria while allowing airflow for optimal healing.
How to Remove SecondSkin:
Do this in the shower with warm water to loosen the adhesive. Gently peel it off, wash the tattoo with mild soap, and let it air dry.
2. Clean Gently
Once the bandage is removed:
• Wash 1–3 times a day depending on how dirty or sweaty the area gets.
• Use unscented antibacterial soap like Dial Gold, Dove, or Dr. Bronner’s (bar or liquid is fine).
• How to wash: Lather the soap in your hands (don’t apply directly to the tattoo), gently wash for about a minute, rinse with lukewarm water, and air dry. If in a hurry, pat gently with a clean paper towel—avoid cloth towels as they harbor bacteria.
3. Moisturize Lightly
Moisturizer keeps your healing tattoo comfortable but doesn’t “heal” it—your body does that.
• When to start: After your first washing and letting the tattoo air dry for a bit, you can apply a light layer of Aquaphor, A&D, or similar tattoo ointments like Mad Rabbit’s tattoo soothing gel.
After about 3-5 days of using ointment, you can switch to an unscented lotion (personal preference).
• Apply unscented lotion 1–3 times daily. I recommend Cetaphil, Lubriderm, or natural coconut oil.
• Less is more: Apply a thin layer—your skin shouldn’t look shiny. Over-moisturizing can suffocate the skin and prolong healing.
What to Avoid During Healing
Ignoring aftercare advice can lead to poor healing, faded ink, or even infections. Avoid the following until your tattoo is fully healed:
• Soaking in Water:
No swimming, hot tubs, saunas, or baths. Showers are fine but keep them under 10 minutes.
• Sun Exposure:
Avoid direct sunlight. Do NOT apply sunscreen to a healing tattoo—cover it with loose clothing instead. Once healed, sunscreen helps prevent fading.
• Re-Bandaging:
Don’t re-wrap your tattoo unless specifically instructed.
• Petroleum-Based Products:
I don’t recommend products like Aquaphor unless used correctly in very thin layers. They can suffocate the skin if over-applied.
• No Scented Soaps or Lotions:
Fragrances can cause irritation and allergic reactions.
• Scratching or Picking:
Let scabs fall off naturally. If itchy, gently slap the area (trust me, it works!) or moisturize lightly.
• Tight Clothing:
It can rub against the tattoo, causing irritation and even pulling off scabs prematurely.
Signs of Infection to Watch For
While some redness and swelling are normal, contact a medical professional if you notice:
• Excessive redness or streaking beyond the tattoo
• Severe swelling, warmth, or pus (yellow/green with an odor)
• Fever or chills
Final Thoughts
Proper tattoo aftercare isn’t complicated—keep it clean, moisturized (but not overly), and protected. This guide is here to help, but if you have any questions about your tattoo’s healing process, don’t hesitate to reach out.
For more personalized advice, contact me at Lockwood Tattoo:
Your tattoo is an investment—let’s make sure it looks great for years to come.
