Avoid high-intensity workouts, excessive sweating, and friction against your tattoo for at least one week.
Tattoo Aftercare Guide for Vibrant, Healthy Ink
To keep your new tattoo looking like you just walked out of the studio, proper aftercare is key. Healing takes about 3-4 weeks, but the way you care for your tattoo long after that determines whether it stays bold or fades into the background. This guide walks you through everything you need to know, from immediate aftercare to maintaining your tattoo’s brilliance for the long haul.
IMMEDIATE TATTOO AFTERCARE: THE FIRST 48 HOURS
After completing your tattoo, your tattoo artist will cover it with a bandage, plastic wrap, or saniderm-style film to protect it from bacteria and external contaminants. Here’s what you need to do:
IF YOUR TATTOO ARTIST USED A TRADITIONAL BANDAGE:
- Leave the adhesive bandage on for 2-4 hours to allow your skin to begin healing.
- After removing the bandage, gently wash your skin with warm water and unscented soap to cleanse the wound (avoid anything with fragrances or exfoliants).
- Pat your skin dry with a clean paper towel—never rub! Avoid washcloths or towels as these can harbor bacteria.
- Apply a thin layer of an aftercare balm, such as Aquaphor or A+D, to keep the skin hydrated and maintain moisture.
- Repeat this process 2-3 times per day for the next two days.
IF YOUR TATTOO ARTIST USED TEGADERM OR SANIDERM FILM:
- Leave the protective adhesive dressing on for 4-5 days, unless otherwise directed by your tattoo artist.
- You may notice fluid buildup (excess ink, blood plasma) under the adhesive—this is completely normal.
- Do not attempt to drain the liquid. If the film breaks or unseals, remove it, clean the tattoo, and apply a new piece of film.
- When removing, do so in the shower for easier removal.
- After removing the film, continue aftercare by applying an unscented lotion for the next 2-3 weeks.
THE FIRST TWO WEEKS: DAILY CARE & HEALING
Your tattoo is an open wound, so it will go through several healing stages in the first couple of weeks, including scabbing and peeling. Follow these essential care steps:
Use a Mild Cleanser: Use mild soap and water or a tattoo-friendly cleanser to gently wash your tattoo a couple times a day.
Apply Lotion Regularly: Once you stop using the aftercare balm (after the first 2 days), switch to a thin layer of unscented lotion 2-3 times a day to maintain moisture and prevent itching.
Avoid Sun Exposure: Do not apply sunscreen to a healing tattoo. Once fully healed, use a high-SPF sunscreen to prevent fading and sunburn.
Do Not Pick or Scratch: As your tattoo heals, it will peel and flake—this is normal. Never scratch or pick at the flakes, as this can cause ink fallout, scarring, and patchy healing.
Avoid Soaking in Water: Showers are fine, but baths, pools, hot tubs, and oceans should be avoided until the tattoo is fully healed.
No Shaving Over the Tattoo: If your tattoo is in a shaved area, wait until the dermis has fully healed before shaving.
Wear Loose Clothing: Tight clothing can cause irritation and disrupt the healing process
Frequently Asked Questions
Is peeling & flaking normal?
Yes! This is your skin’s natural way of regenerating over the tattooed area. Continue moisturizing and avoid picking at the skin.
What if my tattoo looks faded during healing?
It’s common for tattoos to look slightly dull or faded during healing. Once the top layer of skin regenerates, the colors will appear vibrant again.
Can I sleep on my new tattoo?
Try to avoid sleeping directly on your new tattoo for the first few nights to prevent excessive pressure, rubbing, or sticking to your bedsheets.
What if my tattoo gets infected?
Signs of infection include excessive redness, swelling, pus, warmth, or pain beyond the normal healing process. If you suspect an infection, seek medical advice immediately. A physician can provide a proper course of treatment, such as antibiotic ointment.
What should I do if I develop an allergy to tattoo ink?
If you experience unusual redness, rash, swelling, or itching beyond the normal healing process, you might have an allergy to the tattoo ink. Consult a dermatology specialist for evaluation.
Is your ink Vegan?
Yes! — We use high-quality vegan-friendly inks at our studio. Our preferred brands, including Dynamic, Eternal Ink, Solid Ink, Kuro Sumi & World Famous Tattoo Inks, are all formulated without animal-derived ingredients and are never tested on animals. We’re committed to using products that meet strict safety and ethical standards, so you can feel confident knowing your tattoo is created with both quality and care in mind.
What aftercare products do you recommend and offer at your studio?
At Nova Tattoo Studio, your safety and the longevity of your new piece are our top priorities. We’ve curated a selection of premium, professional-grade aftercare products designed to soothe your skin and keep your ink or piercing looking its absolute best. You can find our selected products available for purchase directly at our shop.
Our team is always here to help!If you have questions about which product is right for your specific piece, please don’t hesitate to ask your artist or one of our studio experts during your visit.
THE FIRST TWO WEEKS: DAILY CARE & HEALING
Once your tattoo has fully healed (about 4 weeks, though exact times can vary), follow these steps to keep it looking sharp and vibrant:
Moisturize Daily: Continue applying unscented lotion regularly to lock in moisture, keep the skin hydrated, and prevent fading.
Sun Protection: Always apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) before exposing your tattoo to direct sunlight.
Avoid Excessive Exfoliation: Harsh scrubs or exfoliants can cause your tattoo to fade prematurely.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps maintain your skin health, which directly affects how your tattoo ages.
Follow Good Skin Care Practices: Keeping up with general skin care routines, such as moisturizing and avoiding excessive sun exposure, helps maintain tattoo vibrancy.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Products with alcohol, peroxide, or strong acids can degrade tattoo ink over time. Stick with gentle, skin-friendly products.
Check for Touch-Up Needs: Some tattoos, especially those in high-friction areas, may require long-term touch-ups to maintain their clarity and vibrancy.
THINK YOU NEED TO TOUCH UP YOUR TATTOO?
If you notice any inconsistencies or fading after your tattoo has fully healed, you may be eligible for a free touch-up. Contact any of our Inked Studios within 60 days of your appointment to discuss your options. If you live out of state, reach out to inquire about possible exceptions.
Note: Hand, neck, foot, finger, and face tattoos are not eligible for complimentary touch-ups due to natural exfoliation in these areas.
MAINTAIN YOUR TATTOO FOR THE LONG HAUL
Your tattoo is an investment, and following proper tattoo care instructions ensures it looks great for years to come. Follow these steps carefully, keep your skin hydrated, and protect your ink from sun exposure to maintain its vibrancy. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to ourtattoo artists for personalized aftercare advice or to schedule a touch-up.
For any questions or concerns, contact any of our Inked Studio locations. Thinking about adding to your body art? Check out our body piercing services to learn how we can bring your piercing vision to life with care and precision.
Ready to get inked?
Our talented tattoo artists and piercers are here to bring your vision to life. Contact us today to book an appointment and experience the best in body art.