Tattoo Aftercare

  • Clean the area: Gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap, then pat dry with a clean towel.

  • Apply a healing ointment: Use any white water based moisturizer: Cetaphil, Luberiderm, Eucerin, or Aveno are good examples.

  • Avoid direct sunlight: Keep the tattoo out of the sun, as UV rays can fade the design and irritate healing skin.

  • Wear loose clothing: Avoid tight clothing that may rub against the tattoo and cause irritation or infection.

  • Do not pick or scratch: Allow the tattoo to peel naturally and avoid scratching to prevent scarring or infection.

  • Keep it clean and dry: Avoid submerging the tattoo in water (pools, hot tubs, etc.) until fully healed.

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support skin healing from the inside out.

  • IF TAGADERM/SANIDERM/SECONDSKIN HAS BEEN APPLIED, LEAVE ON FOR 3-5 DAYS, 5 DAYS AT A MAXIMUM.

  • You can wash with the Tagaderm/Saniderm/SecondSkin on, just don’t scrub the area.

Day 1: Right After Tattooing

Leave the bandage on for 2-4 hours.

Wash gently with mild soap and lukewarm water after removing the bandage.

Day 2-3: Initial Healing

Wash and moisturize 2x a day with mild soap and fragrance-free lotion.

Avoid soaking in water (no swimming or baths).

Avoid sun exposure.

Day 4-6: Peeling and Flaking

Peeling is normal—don’t pick or scratch.

Keep moisturizing lightly.

Day 7-10: Scabbing & Itching

Light scabbing may appear; let it fall off naturally.

Avoid scratching—the itching is normal. Alocane is great for this stage.

Day 11-14: Tattoo Settling

Tattoo may appear dull—don’t worry, it’s still healing.

Moisturize daily with a fragrance-free lotion.

Week 2-4: Full Recovery

Avoid tight clothing and excessive friction.

Resume light exercise, but keep the tattoo clean.

Month 1-3: Complete Healing

Use sunscreen after healing to protect your tattoo from UV rays.

Keep moisturizing to maintain skin and tattoo vibrancy.

Avoid:

Sun exposure and tanning beds.

Picking or scratching.

Soaking in water (no swimming, hot tubs).

Tight clothing or friction on the tattoo.

Signs of Infection:

Seek medical help if you notice:

Redness, swelling, or warmth.

Pus or unusual discharge.

Fever or chills.

Most tattoos heal in 3-4 weeks, but larger ones may take up to 6 weeks.