General Tattoo Aftercare Instructions
Proper aftercare is an important part of helping your tattoo heal well and maintain its color and detail. Always follow the specific aftercare instructions provided by your artist, as recommendations may vary depending on their technique, products, and the tattoo itself.
First, identify the type of bandage you have
Medical adhesive bandage (Saniderm, SecondSkin, Recovery, etc.)
If your tattoo is covered with a clear, adhesive medical bandage, you can generally leave it in place for 3–5 days, unless your artist has given you different instructions.
These bandages are water-resistant, so showering is okay. However, avoid soaking the tattoo in baths, hot tubs, pools, lakes, oceans, or other bodies of water while it heals.
It’s normal to notice a collection of ink, blood, and plasma underneath the bandage during the first few days. It may look dark, sticky, or unpleasant, but this is a normal part of the healing process.
Remove the bandage sooner if:
Water or excessive sweat becomes trapped underneath it.
The adhesive begins to lift, exposing part of the tattoo.
Your artist has instructed you to remove it earlier.
Removing an adhesive bandage under warm water or in the shower can make the process more comfortable. Gently peel the bandage back rather than pulling it straight upward.
Plastic wrap
If your artist covered your tattoo with traditional plastic wrap, remove it after approximately 2 hours and do not re-wrap the tattoo unless your artist specifically tells you to.
Once the bandage is removed
Wash your hands before touching your tattoo.
Gently wash the tattoo using your clean hands and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Do not scrub or use washcloths, loofahs, or exfoliating products.
Rinse thoroughly and pat the tattoo dry with a clean towel or paper towel. Be gentle around any areas that are beginning to scab.
Apply a thin layer of unscented, gentle moisturizer 2–3 times per day, or as needed if the tattoo feels dry or itchy. Avoid applying excessive amounts of lotion.
Things to avoid while your tattoo heals
Until your tattoo is completely healed, avoid:
Swimming pools, baths, hot tubs, lakes, oceans, and other standing water
Direct sun exposure and tanning
Tight or abrasive clothing that repeatedly rubs against the tattoo
Jewelry or accessories that rub against the area
Scratching, picking, peeling, or pulling at the skin
Touching the tattoo with dirty or unwashed hands
If your tattoo comes into contact with something dirty or irritating, gently wash the area as soon as possible.
Do not pick at scabs or peeling skin. Let them shed naturally. It’s normal for a tattoo to go through phases where it looks dry, flaky, scabby, or even slightly dull or “ashy.” These changes are temporary and typically improve as the tattoo finishes healing.
Sun protection
Keep a fresh tattoo protected from direct sunlight while it heals. Once it is completely healed, regularly apply a high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen to help protect the tattoo from fading over time.
How long does a tattoo take to heal?
Most tattoos take approximately 6–8 weeks to fully heal, although healing time can vary from person to person and depending on the tattoo.
Once the skin is no longer raised, scabby, flaky, or tender, the tattoo is generally considered healed.
Touch-ups
A fresh tattoo should not be touched up while it is still healing. Your skin needs time to fully recover before additional work can be done. Wait at least 2 months before scheduling a touch-up, unless your artist recommends otherwise.