TATTOO AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS DAY BY DAY

So you’ve been in the chair or you’re looking for general aftercare advice.
Our job with your new tattoo is done. The rest is up to you!

Aftercare is arguably one of the most important parts of a new tattoo and we’re sure everyone wants their tattoo to look the same as it did the day it was completed!

There are many misconception for tattoo aftercare. I wrote this to help guide people in their healing experience, answer questions and give overall understanding of why we do what we do. With that said, listen to what your artist instructs you to do.

The main aftercare process and healing process should last about 2 weeks. It might take a little less or more time depending on the tattoo. Fine line heals quick and highly saturated tattoos can take longer.

Day 1: Immediate care

Leave the cling film on: Keep the initial bandage on for 2-4 hours, protecting the fresh tattoo from bacteria.

Gentle cleansing: After removing the bandage, clean the tattooed area with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free tattoo soap. Harsh scrubbing is definitely a no-no here.

Pat, don't rub: After cleaning, pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel — avoid using towels that may harbor bacteria.

Day 2: Introduce moisturisation

Apply your tattoo aftercare cream: Begin applying a thin layer of your chosen aftercare cream to keep the tattoo moisturised. Look for creams containing gentle, natural ingredients. You don't want anything too harsh that may irritate your healing skin.

Avoid soaking: It's still early days on your tattoo's healing journey, so you should refrain from prolonged exposure to water, such as swimming or hot tubs.

Day 3-7: Maintenance and observation

Regular moisturisation: Continue applying the tattoo aftercare cream 2-3 times a day. There's a fine balance to be struck here between keeping your tattoo moisrturised and not overdoing it. It's best to apply small amounts of moisturiser and spread thinly over your skin to ensure your don't get it too soggy.

Note, as your tattoo heals, moisturisation is really important. Keeping the tattoo adequately moisturised reduces the likelihood of excessive scabbing, promoting a smoother healing process. Moisturisers can also act as a relief to the inevitable itching that occurs as the tattoo begins to peel. Regular application soothes the skin and helps resist the urge to scratch.

Monitor for infection: Watch for signs of infection, such as excessive redness, swelling, or unusual discharge.

Avoid sun exposure: Shield your tattoo from direct sunlight, as UV rays can hinder the healing process and cause fading.

Day 8-14: Nurturing the healing tattoo

Gradually resume normal activities: As the tattoo heals, reintroduce regular activities while remaining cautious of any irritation or signs of infection.

Sunscreen protection: It's best to to keep your new tattoo out of the Sun. If this isn't possible, then you should apply a high SPF sunscreen to protect your tattoo from harmful UV rays. The Sun is one of the main contributors to tattoo fading, so it's best to get in to good habits here from the start.

Wear breathable fabrics: Opt for loose, cotton clothing to prevent irritation and allow the tattoo to breathe.

Resist the itch: As the tattoo peels, resist the urge to scratch. Instead, moisturise and let the dead skin slough off naturally.

Weeks 2-4: Patience and continued care

Hydrate and nourish: Continue moisturising the tattooed area, ensuring it remains hydrated.

Avoid harsh products: Refrain from using products containing alcohol or strong chemicals, as they can irritate healing skin.

Months 1-3: Settling into permanence

Touch-up consideration: Some tattoos may require touch-ups; consult with your artist if needed.

Regular moisturisation: Maintain a routine of moisturising to keep the skin supple and the tattoo vibrant.

LONG-TERM CARE: PRESERVING THE ARTISTRY

Beyond the initial weeks, consistent moisturisation becomes a key component in the long-term care of your tattoo, influencing the vibrancy and clarity of the ink over time.

Hydrate and nourish: Moisturising the tattooed area should ideally become a routine, helping the skin remain supple and aiding in the prevention of dryness or flakiness.

Avoid irritants: Using a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser ensures that the healing skin is not exposed to potential irritants.

Healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet and hydration contribute to overall skin health.

Protect from sun exposure: Continued use of sunscreen helps prevent fading and preserves the longevity of your tattoo.

THE BEST TATTOO AFTERCARE CREAMS

The best tattoo aftercare to choose will depend on where you're at in your healing journey. 

The best tattoo aftercare creams for fresh tattoos:

When choosing the right product for healing your new tattoo, opt for tattoo aftercare creams with natural ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, and chamomile for their soothing properties.

Fragrance-free formulas: Fragrances can irritate healing skin, so choose creams with no added scents.

For fresh tattoos, we recommend the Stories & Ink Aftercare Cream. The active formula reduces inflammation while soothing and hydrating damaged skin. And, with a non-greasy texture, it'll allow your skin to breathe during its recovery.