Aftercare Guide
Your tattoo's healing journey is just as important as the tattooing process itself. Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure optimal healing and long-lasting results.
Healing Timeline
Every tattoo heals differently, but this timeline provides general guidelines for what to expect during your healing process.
First 24 Hours
Critical Care Period
Keep the bandage on for 2-4 hours. Remove gently and wash with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap.
Key Tips
Days 2-14
Healing Phase
Apply thin layer of fragrance-free moisturizer 2-3 times daily. Your tattoo will start to peel - this is normal.
Key Tips
Weeks 2-4
Recovery Phase
Continue moisturizing daily. Itching is normal - resist scratching. Your tattoo colors will settle.
Key Tips
Month 1+
Long-term Care
Your tattoo is healed! Use SPF 30+ sunscreen to protect colors. Regular moisturizing keeps it vibrant.
Key Tips
Do's & Don'ts
Simple guidelines to follow during your healing process
DO
DON'T
Warning Signs
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms
Excessive redness or swelling
Some redness is normal, but increasing redness after 48 hours may indicate infection.
Yellow or green discharge
Clear fluid is normal, but colored discharge requires immediate medical attention.
Fever or chills
These symptoms may indicate a systemic infection and require urgent care.
Red streaking from tattoo
Red lines extending from the tattoo may indicate blood poisoning.
Emergency Contact
If you experience any severe symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately or visit the nearest emergency room.
Recommended Products
Quality products that promote optimal healing
Cleansers
- Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser
- Dove Sensitive Soap
- Antibacterial soap (first 3 days)
Moisturizers
- Aquaphor Healing Ointment
- Cetaphil Daily Moisturizer
- Lubriderm Fragrance-Free
Sun Protection
- SPF 30+ sunscreen
- Zinc oxide based
- Water-resistant formula