Tattoo Aftercare: The Ultimate Guide to Healing and Long-Lasting Ink

7 April 2025

So, you’ve just stepped out of the tattoo studio, fresh ink wrapped and adrenaline still buzzing. Now what?

The way you treat your tattoo in the days, weeks, and even years after getting it done can make a huge difference to how it looks over time. Whether it’s your first piece or your fiftieth, proper aftercare is key to a smooth healing process and long-lasting results.

Here’s your ultimate guide to tattoo aftercare—straightforward, fuss-free, and easy to follow.

The First 24 Hours: What to Expect and Do

Straight after your session, your tattoo artist will usually cover the area with cling film or a medical-grade bandage. This isn’t just for show – it’s protecting an open wound from bacteria, dirt, and friction.

Within the first few hours, you’ll want to:

Leave the bandage on for the time recommended by your artist (usually 2 – 4 hours, sometimes longer).
Gently wash your hands before touching the tattoo.
Wash the area with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap.
Pat it dry with a clean paper towel – don’t rub.

Your tattoo will likely feel sore and warm, a bit like sunburn. That’s completely normal. You might also notice some ink and plasma coming to the surface. Again – normal.

How to Clean Your Tattoo Properly

Keeping your tattoo clean is essential to avoid infection and promote proper healing.

Here’s a simple routine:

Wash your hands before every touch.
Gently clean the tattoo 2–3 times a day with lukewarm water and a mild, unscented soap.
Pat dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
Apply a thin layer of moisturiser or aftercare balm (more on that below).

Less is more—don’t scrub, soak, or overdo it.

Best Moisturisers and Products to Use

Hydration is your tattoo’s best friend. But not all moisturisers are created equal when it comes to healing ink.

Look for products that are:

Fragrance-free
Non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores)
Specifically designed for tattoo aftercare

Some of the go-to options include:

Tattoo-specific balms and creams
Simple, no-frills moisturisers like Aquaphor or E45
Natural ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil (if you’re not sensitive to them)

Apply a thin layer—just enough to stop the tattoo from drying out, but not so much that it’s greasy or suffocating the skin.

What to Avoid During Healing

This part’s important. The better you protect your tattoo while it heals, the better it’ll look for years to come.

Avoid:

Direct sun exposure – UV rays can fade a fresh tattoo fast.
Swimming – Pools, hot tubs, lakes, or the sea—don’t risk it until the tattoo is fully healed.
Heavy sweating – Give intense workouts a miss for a few days.
Tight clothing – Let your skin breathe.
Picking, scratching, or peeling – Yes, it’s tempting. No, don’t do it.

The healing process can take anywhere from 2–4 weeks depending on the size, placement, and your own body’s response.

Long-Term Care for Vibrant Tattoos

Once healed, your tattoo still needs some TLC to stay looking bold and fresh.

Always wear sunscreen on your tattoo when it’s exposed to the sun. SPF 30 or higher is best.
Keep moisturising – dry skin can make tattoos look dull.
Stay hydrated and healthy – your skin reflects what’s going on inside too.

Common Aftercare Myths (That Aren’t True)

Let’s bust a few persistent myths:

❌ “It’s fine to use regular body lotion with fragrance.”
Fragrance = irritation. Avoid it, especially during healing.

❌ “The more ointment, the better.”
Nope. Too much moisture can suffocate the skin and slow healing.

❌ “If it scabs or flakes, it’s ruined.”
Flaking and light scabbing are totally normal – just don’t pick!

❌ “Once it’s healed, I don’t need to do anything.”
Long-term care (hello, sunscreen) is just as important.

A well-looked-after tattoo stays sharp, vibrant, and detailed for years. And it’s totally worth the effort.

Got questions about numbing creams or how to prep before your next session? Check out our full range of products here and get in touch with our team—we’re always happy to help.