Healing
Aftercare
Your tattoo is an open wound for the first few days. How you care for it directly affects how it heals and how it looks long-term. Follow these steps carefully.
Phase 1
First 24 Hours
- Leave the initial wrap on for 2–4 hours (or as instructed).
- Wash gently with unscented antibacterial soap and lukewarm water.
- Pat dry with a clean paper towel — never rub.
- Apply a very thin layer of unscented moisturiser (Bepanthen, Hustle Butter, or Lubriderm).
- Keep it uncovered and let it breathe.
Phase 2
Days 2–7
- Wash twice a day — morning and night.
- Apply a thin moisturiser layer after each wash.
- Expect some redness, swelling, and light peeling — this is normal.
- Do not pick, scratch, or peel any flaking skin.
- Wear loose clothing over the tattoo to avoid friction.
Phase 3
Week 2–4
- Continue moisturising once or twice daily as needed.
- The tattoo will look cloudy or milky as it heals — this is normal.
- Avoid submerging in water (baths, pools, sea) until fully healed.
- Keep away from direct sunlight — no sunbeds.
- If you use second-skin / Saniderm wrap, leave it on for 3–5 days.
Phase 4
Long-Term Care
- Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen whenever the tattoo is exposed to sun.
- Moisturise regularly to keep the skin and ink healthy.
- Avoid prolonged soaking in baths or hot tubs.
- Touch-ups are available if needed once fully healed (usually 6–8 weeks).
What to Avoid
- ✕Picking or scratching any peeling skin
- ✕Soaking in baths, pools, or the sea
- ✕Direct sun exposure without SPF 50+
- ✕Sunbeds
- ✕Tight clothing rubbing the tattoo
- ✕Petroleum jelly (Vaseline)
- ✕Perfumed lotions or soaps
- ✕Shaving over a healing tattoo
Signs of Infection
If you notice any of the following, seek medical advice promptly:
- ·Excessive swelling or redness spreading after the first few days
- ·Yellow or green discharge
- ·Fever or feeling unwell
- ·Hot, hard, or very painful skin around the tattoo
Recommended Products
Bepanthen
Moisturiser
Classic choice, widely available at pharmacies.
Hustle Butter
Specialist Balm
Tattoo-specific formula, excellent for the healing phase.
Saniderm / Tegaderm
Second Skin
Breathable bandage for the first 3–5 days. Ask at your appointment.
Need a touch-up?
Once fully healed (6–8 weeks), touch-ups can be arranged. Reach out via the booking form or Instagram.