A new tattoo is an open wound for the first days, so how you look after it makes a real difference to how it heals and how it looks later. Your artist will give you their own instructions: always follow those first. This is the general routine many studios recommend.
Day 1: leave the wrap, then wash gently
Keep the wrap or film on for as long as your artist said. When it comes off, wash your hands, then wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, unscented soap. Pat it dry with a clean paper towel rather than a cloth towel, and let it air dry for a few minutes.
Days 2 to 4: clean, thin and breathable
- Wash the tattoo two or three times a day with clean hands.
- Apply a very thin layer of the aftercare product your artist recommended. If it looks shiny or greasy, it is too much.
- Wear loose, clean clothes over it and sleep on clean sheets.
Days 5 to 14: flaking and itching
The skin starts to flake and peel, a bit like a healing sunburn, and it often itches. This is normal. Do not pick, scratch or peel it, as that can pull ink out. A light tap or a little more moisturiser usually helps.
- Avoid swimming pools, the sea, baths, hot tubs and saunas until the skin has fully closed.
- Keep the tattoo out of strong sun and do not use sunbeds.
- Hold off on tight straps, heavy workouts that rub the area, and shaving over it.
After two weeks
The surface usually looks healed after two or three weeks, but the deeper skin takes longer. Keep moisturising, and once it has closed, protect it with a high-SPF sunscreen to keep lines sharp and colours bright. Many studios offer a free touch-up check after healing, so ask about it.
When to ask for advice
Some redness and tenderness for the first few days is common. If you notice heat, spreading redness, swelling that gets worse, a fever, or anything that worries you, contact a doctor or pharmacist. This article is general information, not medical advice.