Tattoo Aftercare 101: What Your Skin Really Needs After Getting Inked

Getting a tattoo does not end when stepping out of the studio, as it is the only beginning of how the skin and ink will age together. Fresh tattoos are more than just art and they are tiny wounds that need the right care to heal well and stay vibrant.



The new tattoo is basically a open wound and it requires aftercare that prevents the infection and ensures proper healing.

What To Expect For The First 24 Hours:

• Expect redness, slight swelling, warmth and oozing of blood, plasma and ink.
• Some soreness and the area will likely be tender or sore.
• Bandaging so it protects it as the body starts clotting and forming scabs.

Some aftercare tips:

• Gently wash with lukewarm water and fragrance free, antibacterial soap, pat dry with a paper towel or clean cloth.
• Applying a thin layer of the recommended tattoo ointment or lotion that keeps it from drying out.
• Avoid baths, swimming or prolonged showers and sweat should be managed.
• Keep it away from direct sun, dirt, and peoples/pets that could introduce germs.

Some Do's for the ink:

During the initial healing phase for the first few weeks keep the new tattoo covered up with a soft, loose clothing to protect it from direct sunlight and environmental pollutants.

Drinking plenty of water to support the skin elasticity and overall health which helps the skin hold the ink better.

Over time natural fading is natural. Schedule a touch-up sessions with the artist to restore vibrancy and detail as needed.

Don'ts for the ink:

Resist the urge to scratch or pick at scabs and peeling skin, as this can pull out ink which leads to scarring or patchy spots.

Avoid using alcohol-based, highly perfumed, or petroleum-based like pure vaseline during the initial healing, as these can irritate the skin or clog pores and hinder the healing process.

Do not wear tight clothing too often as it can rub against a healing or even healed tattoo which causes irritation or friction that contributes to fading.

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1. What are the tattoo healing stages day by day?
   Tattoo healing happens in stages: Days 1-3 (Inflammation) with redness, swelling, and oozing; Days 4-14 (Visible Recovery) brings itching, flaking, and peeling like sunburn; Days 14-30 (Invisible Recovery) where the tattoo looks dull but deeper healing continues; and finally, Months 2-6 (Full Remodeling) as the skin finishes repairing for full vibrancy, requiring consistent gentle care, moisturizing, and sun protection throughout.
2. What should your tattoo look like after 7 days?
   Any scabs that have formed will have hardened, and they will begin to flake off. Do not pick at or try to pull them off. Your tattoo may feel very itchy during this time. Use a moisturizer to relieve the itch.
3. How to tell if a tattoo is well done?
   The tips of points shouldn't have little blobs on and lines should be reasonably even in diameter (assuming they are meant to be of course). Colour should be solid. Whatever colour it is should be smooth and saturated, and gradients between colours should be smooth too.