Tattoo aftercare: day by day

The first few hours

Your artist will clean the tattoo and cover it with a wrap or protective film. Leave it on for as long as your artist advises — this protects fresh skin from dust and bacteria.

• Wash your hands before touching the tattoo.
• Avoid sleeping on the tattooed area on the first night if you can.
• A little clear fluid or excess ink under the wrap is normal.

Days 1–3: clean and protect

Once the wrap comes off, gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Use your fingertips — no washcloth or loofah.

• Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Don't rub.
• Apply a thin layer of the aftercare balm your artist recommends. Too much cream suffocates the skin.
• Wash 2–3 times a day, and after sweating.
• Wear loose, clean cotton clothes over the area.

The area may feel warm, tender and look slightly swollen — like a mild sunburn. This should ease each day.

Days 4–14: the peeling stage

Your tattoo will start to flake and itch, a lot like a healing sunburn. It may look dull or cloudy. This is completely normal.

• Don't scratch or pick. Pulling flakes can pull out ink and leave patchy spots.
• If it itches, gently tap the skin or apply a little balm.
• Keep moisturising lightly once or twice a day.

Weeks 2–4: settling in

The top layer has healed, but the skin underneath is still recovering. The tattoo may look shiny or slightly raised before it settles to its final look.

• Keep it out of strong direct sun.
• Continue moisturising with a gentle, unscented lotion.
• Start gym workouts gradually, avoiding friction on the tattoo.

After one month: long-term care

Sun is the biggest enemy of tattoo ink. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen on your tattoo whenever it's exposed, and keep your skin moisturised. If any area healed unevenly, message us about a touch-up.