Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

Our tattoo artist will guide you through the whole tattoo healing process and will provide you with this page that has all the necessary information.

IMPORTANT: There is always a risk of an infection or complication during the tattoo recovery process because it’s basically an open wound. So, if you notice something out of the ordinary (increased redness, increased swelling, rash or fever), ALWAYS consult your tattoo artist first with a photo and a description of your concerns.

Remember, proper tattoo aftercare is essential for the longevity and appearance of your tattoo. So, don't hesitate to contact your tattoo artist for guidance.

Removing Second Skin Bandage

We offer a second skin bandage to protect your tattoo during the initial healing period. Under this self-adhesive film, your tattoo might fill up with liquid after the session and the tattoo might seem blurry, but don’t worry - it’s a natural process and should be this way. This is plasma, which carries important nutrients, hormones, and proteins to the wound site.

If your tattoo artist has applied a second skin tattoo cover, follow these steps:

a. Wear it for 24-48h (depending on what has been advised by your artist). After that, hold your bandaged tattoo for 5-10 min under lukewarm water to loosen the adhesive and carefully remove the self-adhesive film with CLEAN hands.

b. Take your time when removing the bandage and do it gently. To take the bandage off, you must stretch it from each side rather than peel it off like a band aid. When you stretch the bandage, it allows the adhesive to come off the skin without disrupting the tattoo and taking any ink with it. If it sticks, gently wet it with lukewarm water again to help with removal.

c. After the second skin bandage is removed, wash your tattoo again gently with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap (optional), using your fingertips.

d. Pat the area dry with a disposable paper towel, taking care not to rub. Leave it for 5-10 minutes to breathe.

e. Apply moisturizer. We usually advise to use Lubriderm or a specialized tattoo cream/balm/lotion. You need to apply a very small amount - just for it to shine.

Following these steps for tattoo aftercare will help ensure the proper healing of your tattoo.

Wash Your Hands: Before touching your tattoo, make sure your hands are clean to prevent infection.

Using Regular Tattoo Bandage

Some people have sensitive skin and might have a reaction to the second skin bandage. In this case we choose to use a regular tattoo bandage which is a soaking pad. When the appointment with your tattoo artist is finished, they will apply a moisturizer directly on the tattoo and cover it with a soaking pad, securing it with a paper tape or medical adhesive tape.

After that you will need to take the following steps:

4-6h after the appointment wash your hands and remove the bandage carefully
Wash your tattoo with clean hands, warm water and liquid antibacterial soap. Be gentle
Pat it dry with a paper towel and let it breathe for 10-15 min
Apply moisturizer (Lubriderm or tattoo lotion/cream). Don’t put too much
Cover the tattoo with a clean tattoo bandage (i.e. soaking pad) and secure it with tape
Repeat the same actions every 4-6h (except for night) until the tattoo stops leaking (it may take 1-3 days). You will notice it when you change the bandage, and it will not have any imprint of the tattoo. After this, you don’t need to keep covering it.
Keep moisturizing it 2-3 times/day - you don’t need to keep washing it, and avoid soaking it in the shower.

Ongoing Care and Protection

Apply a Thin Layer of Lubriderm or tattoo lotion:

Use Lubriderm or a specialized tattoo balm/cream recommended by your tattoo artist. Apply a thin layer to the tattooed area. Only use enough to make it shine, a little goes a long way. Make sure your hands are clean when you handle a fresh tattoo.
Reapply the ointment 2-3 times a day or as instructed, but avoid over-saturating.

Avoid Tight Clothing:

Wear loose, breathable clothing over the tattooed area to prevent friction and irritation.

Keep it Clean and Moisturized:

Wash your tattoo gently with soap and water 2-3 times a day only if the plasma keeps coming out of the tattoo. If it's dry, you don't need to wash it.
Apply the recommended tattoo aftercare cream or moisturizer to keep the tattoo from drying out.

Additional Care and Long-Term Considerations

No Alcohol or sport for the first 3-5 days after the appointment:

Alcohol thins out the blood, which can cause your tattoo to weep more fluid than necessary.
Exercising can increase blood pressure, leading to more ink and fluid coming out of your tattoo. Sweat can also loosen the bandage and create a bacteria-friendly environment.

No Swimming or Soaking:

Avoid swimming, hot tubs, saunas, and baths until your tattoo is fully healed (3-4 weeks).
Showers are fine, but do not soak the tattooed area.

Avoid Sun Exposure:

Keep your tattoo covered or out of the direct sunlight for about 3-4 weeks.
After healing, apply sunscreen to protect your tattoo from fading.

Avoid Scratching or Picking:

Itching is a normal part of the healing process, but do not scratch or pick at your tattoo.
Gently tap the itchy area instead.

Healing Time:

- Tattoos typically take 3-4 weeks to fully heal. The tattoo healing process varies from person to person.