Best Aftercare for a New Tattoo

Why Tattoo Aftercare Matters

Your tattoo is essentially an open wound. The way you care for it in the first few weeks directly affects how well the ink settles, how vibrant the colours stay, and how cleanly it heals. Skipping or rushing aftercare is one of the most common reasons tattoos fade, blur, or become infected.

The First 24 Hours

Your artist will cover your fresh tattoo with a bandage or cling film. Leave this on for the time they recommend (usually 2–4 hours, or up to 24 hours for second-skin/breathable film). When you remove it:

1. Wash gently with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free soap.
2. Pat — don't rub — dry with a clean paper towel.
3. Apply a thin layer of tattoo aftercare balm or lotion.

Days 2–7: The Healing Phase

• Moisturise regularly. Apply a thin layer of aftercare lotion 2–3 times a day. Don't over-moisturise — the skin needs to breathe.
• Don't pick or scratch. Peeling and itching is normal. Picking can pull out ink and cause scarring.
• Keep it out of the sun. UV exposure on a healing tattoo causes fading and irritation.
• Avoid soaking. No baths, swimming pools, or hot tubs until fully healed (usually 2–4 weeks).
• Wear loose clothing. Tight fabric rubbing against a fresh tattoo can cause irritation and ink loss.

Weeks 2–4: Long-Term Care

The surface may look healed, but the deeper layers of skin are still recovering. Continue moisturising and applying SPF when the tattoo is exposed to sunlight. A good SPF 50 sunscreen will protect your ink for years to come.

What to Use

Avoid petroleum-based products (like Vaseline) in the early stages — they can clog pores and trap bacteria. Instead, look for products specifically formulated for tattoo healing. Browse our tattoo aftercare range for balms, lotions, and everything you need for a clean heal.

Did You Use Numbing Cream?

If you used a numbing cream for your session, your skin may be slightly more sensitive post-tattoo. Follow the same aftercare steps, and if you notice any unusual redness or swelling beyond the first 48 hours, consult your artist or a medical professional. Explore our tattoo numbing creams for your next session.