Tattoo Aftercare
Good aftercare protects the work as much as good tattooing does. Here's the general guidance we give every client — read it before you sit down, not just after.
The First 24 Hours
Your artist will cover the fresh tattoo with a dressing before you leave the studio. Standard advice is to leave the initial dressing in place for the time your artist recommends — typically a few hours, sometimes overnight for a film-style dressing — then remove it gently.
Once removed, wash the area straight away with clean hands and a fragrance-free, mild soap and lukewarm water. Pat — don't rub — dry with a clean paper towel or fresh towel, and let the skin air for a few minutes before applying a thin layer of aftercare product.
The Healing Timeline
Every tattoo and every client heals a little differently, but this is the general pattern.
Days 1–3
Redness, mild swelling and warmth around the tattoo are normal. Some oozing of plasma and excess ink is expected — this is not infection. Keep washing gently 2–3 times a day and keep the area clean and lightly moisturised.
Days 4–14
The tattoo starts to scab and flake — this is completely normal healing skin, not the ink coming out. Keep it clean and moisturised so it doesn't dry out and crack, but let scabs come away on their own.
Weeks 2–4
Surface healing is usually complete and the skin looks settled, though it can stay slightly dry, dull or itchy underneath while the deeper layers finish healing. Full healing can take up to 4–6 weeks depending on placement and size.
Beyond 6 Weeks
Once fully healed, keep the tattoo out of direct sun where possible and apply a high-SPF sunscreen when it is exposed — UV is the biggest cause of tattoos fading and blurring over time.
Keep It Simple
Do
- Wash your hands before touching a healing tattoo
- Wear loose, breathable clothing over the area
- Use a fragrance-free moisturiser or specialist aftercare balm, applied thinly
- Sleep on clean bedding while it heals
- Ask the studio if anything looks or feels unusual
Don't
- Pick, scratch or peel scabs — let them fall away naturally
- Soak in baths, swimming pools, hot tubs or the sea until fully healed
- Expose a fresh tattoo to direct sunlight or sunbeds
- Over-apply thick layers of cream or petroleum-based products
- Do intense exercise or heavy sweating for the first few days
Signs To Watch For
Mild redness, warmth and itching are a normal part of healing. Contact your GP or NHS 111 if you notice spreading redness or red streaking, increasing pain after the first couple of days, hot or swollen skin, pus or a foul smell, a fever, or a rash — these can be signs of infection or an allergic reaction and are worth getting checked promptly. If in doubt, get it looked at — it's always better to ask.
Questions about how your specific tattoo is healing? Call the studio and we're happy to advise.