Tatship Blog

The Do's and Don'ts of Tattoo Aftercare

Master the art of tattoo aftercare with our comprehensive guide on the do's and don'ts for keeping your new tattoo fresh and fabulous.

Getting a new tattoo is an exciting experience, but the real magic happens in the aftercare. Proper tattoo aftercare is crucial to ensure your new ink heals beautifully and stays vibrant for years to come. Whether you’re a tattoo newbie or a seasoned collector, following the right steps can make all the difference. Dive into our witty guide on the do's and don'ts of tattoo aftercare to keep your new masterpiece fresh and fabulous. Let's make sure your tattoo stays as stunning as the day you got it!

 

Tattoo Aftercare Dos

 

Do - Follow Your Tattoo Artist's Instructions

Listen up, ink enthusiasts! Your tattoo artist is like the Gandalf of body art — wise and full of good advice. They know best, so follow their instructions religiously. They’ve seen it all and know exactly how to keep your new tattoo masterpiece looking pristine. This includes knowing when to remove the initial tattoo film and how to proceed with tattoo aftercare.

A tattoo artist, wearing black gloves, is applying a protective wrap to a freshly inked tattoo on a client's forearm. The tattoo, featuring intricate black-and-gray designs, is visible around the edges of the white wrap, ensuring the new ink stays clean and protected during the healing process.

 

Do - Clean Your Tattoo Properly

Think of your new tattoo as a fancy new gadget. You wouldn’t clean your phone with sandpaper, right? Use fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water to gently wash your tattoo. Pat it dry with a clean towel. Be gentle with your skin and avoid scrubbing like you’re trying to remove a decade-old coffee stain. Proper tattoo aftercare ensures your ink stays vibrant and your skin heals beautifully.

Two fragrance-free soap bars resting on a soft, white towel, perfect for gently cleaning and caring for your skin.

 

Do - Keep It Moisturised

After cleaning, apply a thin layer of a recommended healing ointment or fragrance-free lotion to keep the skin hydrated. This tattoo aftercare product helps in the healing process and maintains the tattoo's vibrancy.

A person applying a moisturizing cream to a large tattoo on their stomach, showcasing proper tattoo aftercare to keep the ink vibrant and skin hydrated.

 

Do - Stay Hydrated

Hydration isn’t just for marathon runners; it’s crucial for tattoo healing too. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin supple and aid the tattoo aftercare process. Your body will thank you, and so will your new ink.

A close-up of a person holding a glass of water, emphasizing the importance of staying hydrated for healthy skin and optimal tattoo healing.

 

Do - Watch for Infections

Be a tattoo detective! Keep an eye out for unusual redness, swelling, or pus. If your tattoo starts acting up, don’t just wait and see. Seek medical advice pronto. It’s better to be safe than sorry—no one wants their beautiful art marred by a tattoo infection. Proper tattoo aftercare is essential to prevent any tattoo infection and complications.

 

 

Tattoo Aftercare Don’ts

 

Don't - Pick and Scratch

Avoid picking at scabs or flakes that form as the tattoo heals, as this can lead to scarring and loss of ink. Hands off! If it itches, lightly pat the area or use a little more moisturiser. Resist the urge to scratch like a cat on a scratching post. Proper tattoo aftercare is crucial to ensure a smooth healing process.

A close-up of a person scratching a tattoo on their arm, highlighting the importance of avoiding picking and scratching during the tattoo healing process to prevent damage and scarring.
Image provided by Sorry Mom

 

Don't - Wear Tight Clothing

Your tattoo needs to breathe, so give it some space. Tight clothing can rub against your new tattoo, causing irritation and delaying healing. Opt for loose, comfortable clothes that let your skin heal without interference. Proper tattoo aftercare includes giving your tattoo room to breathe. Your tattoo — and your comfort — will thank you.

Close-up of a person wearing tight red jeans and a red top, highlighting the importance of avoiding tight clothing to prevent irritation during tattoo healing.

 

Don't - Expose to Sunlight

Sunlight is great for plants but terrible for fresh tattoos. UV rays can cause your tattoo to fade and increase the risk of sunburn. Cover up with clothing or use a high-SPF sunscreen once your tattoo is fully healed. Keep your ink looking vibrant and sharp.

A bearded man with tattoos sitting on a beach chair under the sun, illustrating the need to avoid direct sunlight on fresh tattoos to prevent fading and sunburn.

 

Don't - Expose to Excessive Heat

Your tattoo is delicate and needs a cool, calm environment to heal. Avoid saunas, steam rooms, and intense workouts that cause excessive sweating during the initial healing phase. Excessive heat can cause your tattoo to become irritated and prolong the healing process.

Interior view of a wooden sauna, emphasising the need to avoid excessive heat and steam to protect a healing tattoo.

 

Don't - Swim or Soak in Water

Water might be your best friend in the summer, but it’s your tattoo’s worst enemy. Pools, hot tubs, the sea, and even long baths can expose your new tattoo to bacteria and excessive moisture, leading to infections or fading. Sea water, in particular, can harbor bacteria that may infect your tattoo. Stick to quick showers until your tattoo is fully healed. Preventing your tattoo from getting soaked will ensure it stays vibrant and free from infections.

A swimmer diving into a pool, demonstrating the importance of avoiding swimming and soaking in water during the initial tattoo healing phase to prevent infection.

 

An infographic titled "Tattoo Aftercare" featuring two columns labeled "Dos" and "Don'ts." The "Dos" column includes: listen to your tattoo artist, clean your tattoo gently, keep it moisturized, drink lots of water, and look out for infections. The "Don'ts" column includes: no picking or scratching, no tight clothing, stay out of the sun, skip the heat, and no swimming or soaking.

 

Try Tatship's Virtual Tattoo Try-On for the Perfect Ink

Tatship understands the importance of caring for your new tattoo, which is why we offer a virtual try-on feature to ensure you’re happy with your design before it becomes a permanent part of you. Follow these do’s and don’ts, and your tattoo will stay as stunning as the day you got it. Share your tattoo aftercare stories with us and subscribe for more tips and advice!