A tattoo is only as good as its heal. The sharpest linework in the world can turn patchy if it's neglected in the first two weeks. Aftercare isn't complicated, but it does require consistency — here's exactly what to do, day by day.
The First 24 Hours
Your artist will wrap the tattoo — either with plastic film or a breathable adhesive like Saniderm. Keep that wrap on for as long as your artist recommends, typically 2 to 4 hours for film, or several days if they applied a second-skin bandage.
When you remove it, wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap using clean hands only. Pat dry with a paper towel — never rub. Do not apply ointment until the skin has had a chance to breathe for a few hours; a light application of fragrance-free moisturizer after that first wash is plenty.
Days 2–6: The Weeping Stage
Expect plasma, ink and a little blood to seep out during the first couple of days. Wash the tattoo 2 to 3 times a day and keep it lightly moisturized. Key rules in this window:
- Wash before moisturizing, and use thin layers — the tattoo should never look shiny or smothered.
- Do not pick or scratch. Itching starts around day 3 or 4; slapping the area lightly is the accepted alternative.
- Avoid soaking — no baths, pools, saunas or swimming. Quick showers are fine.
- Keep it out of direct sunlight. Fresh tattoos sunburn instantly and UV degrades healing ink.
- Wear loose clothing over the area so nothing rubs off the healing surface.
Days 7–14: Flaking and Itching
The tattoo will flake like a sunburn and may look dull or cloudy — that's normal. Let the flakes fall off on their own. Continue gentle washing and light moisturizing. By the end of week two, the surface skin will have regenerated and the tattoo will look vivid again.
Weeks 3–6: The Deep Heal
Even when the surface looks perfect, the deeper layers are still settling. Itching and slight firmness under the skin are common. Sunscreen becomes your best friend from this point forward — healed tattoos exposed to regular sun will fade noticeably faster. Keep SPF on it whenever it's exposed.
Warning Signs of Infection
Mild redness and tenderness are expected for the first few days, but contact your artist or a doctor if you notice:
- Redness that spreads beyond the tattoo or worsens after day 3
- Warmth, swelling or pain that keeps increasing
- Pus, foul odor, or red streaks radiating from the area
- Fever or chills after a session
Catching an infection early makes treatment simple; waiting makes it expensive and can permanently damage the tattoo.
What to Avoid While Healing
- Alcohol for the first night — it thins blood and slows healing
- Gym sessions that stretch or sweat over the fresh tattoo for the first week
- Pet fur direct contact — keep animals away from the healing area
- Exfoliants, loofahs and any scented lotions until fully healed
Good aftercare starts with choosing a clean, professional studio in the first place — see our guide on tattoo age laws and choosing a reliable artist, and dig into the craft's roots in our history of traditional tattoos. For more articles and festival news, visit the Traditional Tattoo Festival homepage.