Tattoo Aftercare Recommendations

Proper care is essential to ensure your tattoo heals beautifully and lasts for years to come. Please follow the steps below carefully:

1. Leave the Second Skin On

Right after your session, your tattoo will be covered with a protective second skin film.

  • Leave this on for 24 to 48 hours, depending on how your skin feels.

  • It helps protect your tattoo from bacteria while allowing it to breathe.

  • You can shower while wearing the film, but avoid hot water, steam, and long exposure to water.

If the film starts to peel early or fluid builds up under it, you may remove it gently and move on to the next step.

2. Gently Clean the Tattoo

Once you remove the film:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly.

  • Use lukewarm water and mild, unscented antibacterial soap to gently clean the tattoo.

  • Do not scrub — just use your fingers to softly remove any residue.

  • Pat dry with a clean paper towel or let air dry. Avoid fabric towels.

3. Apply Ointment Regularly (10–14 Days)

  • Apply a very thin layer of Bepanthen Plus (Bepanthen Tattoo) or a professional tattoo aftercare ointment.

  • Do this 3–4 times a day, or whenever the tattoo feels dry.

  • Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo.

  • Avoid using baby creams, petroleum jelly, Vaseline, or hand lotions — they can clog the skin and slow healing.

4. Scabbing and Itching

  • It’s normal for the tattoo to lightly scab, flake, or itch during healing.

  • Do not pick, scratch, or peel the scabs — this may cause patchy spots or scarring.

  • If it itches, lightly tap the area or apply a bit of ointment.

5. Sun Protection

  • Keep your tattoo out of the sun completely during healing.

  • After it’s fully healed, always apply SPF 50+ sunscreen when exposed to sunlight to prevent fading.

6. Avoid Water Immersion

  • Do not soak your tattoo in water until fully healed (about 2–3 weeks).

  • Avoid swimming pools, lakes, hot tubs, baths, and saunas.

  • Quick showers are fine.

7. No Alcohol or Drugs

  • Avoid alcohol for at least a few days after getting tattooed — it thins your blood and may slow healing.

  • Never come to your appointment under the influence — it affects both your body and the quality of the work.

8. Limit Physical Activity

  • Avoid heavy sweating, gym sessions, or intense workouts for at least 5–7 days.

  • Excessive movement or friction can irritate the tattoo and delay healing.

9. Avoid Friction and Tight Clothing

  • Wear loose, breathable clothing over the tattooed area to prevent rubbing, irritation, or trapped moisture.

  • Avoid tight waistbands, straps, or anything that presses directly on the tattoo.

  • If your tattoo is on your wrist or forearm, avoid wearing watches, bracelets, or elastic bands until it's fully healed.

  • Try not to sleep directly on the tattoo, especially in the first few nights — this helps prevent sticking, pressure, and uneven healing.

Still Unsure or Concerned?

If anything feels off during healing - like unusual redness, swelling, or discharge - reach out to me or consult a doctor. It’s always better to ask than guess.

Your skin is healing from a delicate, detailed process - treat it with care, and your tattoo will thank you for years to come!