Read This Before You Touch Your New Tattoo
Tattoo Aftercare
A new tattoo is a controlled skin wound.
How it heals depends far more on cleanliness and restraint than on products.
Days 1-2
Goal: Keep it clean and
let the skin begin closing
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Leave the bandage on as directed by me
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After removing bandage, wash gently with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free liquid soap.
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Use clean hands only — no washcloths, or sponges
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Pat dry with a clean paper towel or allow to air dry
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Do not apply thick ointments or greasy products
Heavy products trap heat and moisture and slow healing.
​Recommended SOAP:
Days 5-14
Goal: Protect the healing skin
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Peeling and itching are normal
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Do not scratch or pick
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Moisturize lightly as needed
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Avoid tight clothing or friction over the tattoo
Scratching and picking cause more damage than dryness ever will.
Days 3-5
Goal: Support surface healing
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Wash 2–3 times per day
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When the tattoo feels dry or tight, apply a very thin layer of a light, fragrance-free cream or lotion.
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The skin should not look shiny, wet, or greasy
​Recommended creams:
Weeks 3-8
Goal: Long-term skin strength
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The tattoo looks healed, but the skin barrier is still rebuilding
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Continue light daily moisturizing
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Avoid sun exposure — UV light can permanently fade a healing tattoo
What to Avoid
While Healing​
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Touching the tattoo with dirty hands
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Using too much product
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Overthinking and overdoing aftercare
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Touching with unwashed hands
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Soaking (baths, pools, hot tubs, lakes)
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Thick ointments or greasy layers
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Fragranced products or essential oils
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Scrubbing, exfoliating, or shaving over the tattoo
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Sun exposure until fully healed
Most healing problems are caused by:​​​​​​​​​​​
Common problems explained
Over-moisturizing
Using too much product can clog pores and trap bacteria, leading to irritation and breakouts.
Folliculitis
Small red bumps or whiteheads caused by clogged or inflamed hair follicles — often from heavy products or trapped sweat. This is common and preventable.
Occlusion
When thick products seal moisture and heat against the skin. Tattoos need light moisture, not suffocation.
When to Seek Medical Care
Contact a medical professional if you experience:​
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Spreading redness
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Increasing swelling after the first few days
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Severe or worsening pain
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Pus, fever, or red streaking