Tattoo aftercare advice

Proper aftercare is essential for the safe healing, appearance, and longevity of your tattoo. A tattoo is an open wound, and should be treated as such. The following aftercare instructions below will significantly reduce the risk of infection, ink loss, or scarring. Failure to follow aftercare advice may negatively affect the final result of the tattoo, and is outside the artist’s responsibility.

Immediate Aftercare (First 24 Hours)

Please follow the instructions relevant to your dressing.

Second Skin (Medical Adhesive Film)

Second Skin is a breathable, medical‑grade barrier that protects your tattoo while allowing oxygen in and fluid out.

What to expect:

  • You may see plasma, ink, and fluid build‑up under the film. This is normal.

  • Mild redness, warmth, and tightness are expected.

Care Instructions:

  1. Keep the Second Skin on for 1 - 3 days

  2. Avoid activities involving excessive sweating, such exercise, labour intensive work, saunas, or steam rooms. You must also avoid submerging the tattoo in water, showers are ok, baths are not recommended.

  3. If the film leaks, lifts significantly, or causes irritation, remove it immediately.

Removing Second Skin:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly.

  2. Gently remove the film under warm running water, slowly pulling it back on itself (not upward).

  3. Wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance‑free antibacterial soap.

  4. Pat dry with a clean paper towel.

  5. Apply a very thin layer of recommended aftercare balm or lotion.

Aftercare Using Cling Wrap

Cling wrap is used to protect your tattoo immediately after your appointment and during the very early stages of healing.

What to Expect

  • Mild redness, warmth, and tenderness.

  • Some plasma or ink weeping during the first few hours.

  • The tattoo may feel sore or tight once uncovered.

Care Instructions

  1. Remove the cling wrap 2–4 hours after your appointment (or as advised by your artist).

  2. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the tattoo.

  3. Gently clean the area with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance‑free antibacterial soap.

  4. Pat dry with a clean paper towel (do not rub).

  5. Apply a very thin layer of recommended tattoo aftercare balm.

  6. Wash and moisturise the tattoo 2–3 times daily.

  7. For the first night only, you may lightly rewrap to protect clothing or bedding. Remove in the morning and do not rewrap again unless advised.

❌ Do Not:

  • Scratch, pick, or peel scabs or flaking skin.

  • Submerge the tattoo in water (baths, swimming pools, hot tubs, sea) for at least 3–4 weeks.

  • Use perfumed, alcohol‑based, or petroleum‑heavy products.

  • Expose the tattoo to sunbeds or direct sunlight during healing.

  • Exercise or allow the skin to sweat excessively for 1-2 weeks.

General Aftercare Guidelines (All Tattoos)

✅ Do:

  • Keep the tattoo clean and lightly moisturised.

  • Wear loose, breathable clothing.

  • Protect the tattoo from sun exposure.

  • Stay hydrated and maintain good hygiene.

The Healing Phases

Every body heals differently, but most tattoos follow these stages:

1. Initial Healing (Days 1–7)

  • Redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness are normal.

  • Plasma leakage and mild oozing may occur.

  • The tattoo may feel tight and sore

2. Peeling & Itching (Weeks 1–2)

  • The tattoo will begin to flake or peel like a sunburn.

  • Itchiness is common – do not scratch.

  • Continue gentle washing and light moisturising.

3. Settling Phase (Weeks 3–4)

  • The skin appears healed on the surface but may look dull or dry.

  • Ink settles into the skin.

  • Continue to moisturise and protect from sun.

4. Complete Healing (Up to 8 Weeks)

  • Deeper layers of skin finish healing.

  • The tattoo reaches its final appearance.

  • Sun protection remains essential to prevent fading.

Signs to Seek Medical Advice

Contact a healthcare professional if you experience:

  • Increasing redness, swelling, or heat after several days

  • Pus or thick yellow/green discharge

  • Fever or flu‑like symptoms

  • Severe pain or allergic reactions

Final Notes

  • Touch‑ups (if required) should only be done once the tattoo is fully healed.

  • Healing results vary depending on aftercare, placement, lifestyle, and individual skin type.

  • By proceeding with your tattoo, you acknowledge responsibility for proper aftercare.