Taking proper care of your tattoo is essential for both preventing infections and keeping your ink vibrant for years to come. The following guidelines are based on my professional experience and are designed to help you navigate the healing process step by step.
Disclaimer: The information on this page reflects my professional experience as a tattoo artist and is intended for general guidance only. It is not medical advice. If you have specific health concerns, medical conditions, or questions—especially about pregnancy, breastfeeding, or medication use—please consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Immediate Post-Session Care
(At Home)
After your session, the healing process truly begins at home. As soon as you get there, carefully remove the protective film or bandage and rinse your tattoo with warm water and mild soap to remove any residue. Gently pat the area dry using disposable paper towels – avoid rubbing the skin. Repeating this cleaning process every 30 – 50 minutes during the first few hours helps set the stage for smooth, effective healing.
Right After the Session
- Remove the Cover: As soon as you get home, gently remove the film or bandage applied in the studio.
- Clean the Tattoo: Rinse the tattoo with warm water and mild soap.
- Dry Carefully: Pat the area dry with disposable paper towels—avoid rubbing.
- No Cream Yet: Do not apply any cream at this stage.
- Repeat Cleaning: Repeat this cleaning process every 30–50 minutes during the first few hours to remove excess plasma and ink.
Right After the Session
- Remove the Cover: As soon as you get home, gently remove the film or bandage applied in the studio.
- Clean the Tattoo: Rinse the tattoo with warm water and mild soap.
- Dry Carefully: Pat the area dry with disposable paper towels—avoid rubbing.
- No Cream Yet: Do not apply any cream at this stage.
- Repeat Cleaning: Repeat this cleaning process every 30–50 minutes during the first few hours to remove excess plasma and ink.
Nighttime Routine on Day 0
Before bed, give your tattoo one final wash with warm water and mild soap, then gently pat it dry. Next, apply a thin layer of the recommended aftercare cream to keep your skin hydrated through the night. Finally, cover your tattoo with a fresh bandage to protect it while you sleep. If you notice a faint imprint of your design on the bandage in the morning, that’s completely normal and shows the bandage did its job.
Preparing for Bed
- Clean Again: Before going to bed, wash the tattoo once more with warm water and soap.
- Dry Thoroughly: Gently pat it dry.
- Apply a Thin Layer of Cream: Use only a very light layer of the recommended aftercare cream (as advised by your artist).
- Re-Cover: Cover the tattoo with a fresh bandage.
Note: If you notice an imprint of your tattoo on the bandage in the morning, don’t worry—this is normal and indicates that the cover is doing its job.
Daily Routine – Days 1 and 2
Main goal: consistent care throughout the day.
- Multiple Cleanings: In the morning, during the day, and before bed, remove the bandage and wash the tattoo with warm water and soap.
- Dry and Moisturize: Gently pat it dry and apply a thin layer of cream (following your artist’s advice).
- Reapply Bandage: Cover it again with a fresh bandage each time.
Day 3 and Beyond
- Morning Routine on Day 3: Remove the bandage, wash your tattoo with warm water and mild soap, pat dry, and apply a small amount of cream.
- Ongoing Maintenance: Continue to clean and moisturize your tattoo 3–4 times a day until it has completely healed.
What to Avoid During Healing
- Alcohol: Avoid drinking alcohol, as it can thin your blood and slow down healing.
- Sun Exposure: Do not tan or expose your tattoo to direct sunlight until it’s fully healed.
- Saunas, Pools, and Hot Baths: Stay away from saunas, swimming pools, and hot baths (a warm shower is fine).
- Strenuous Activity: Avoid intense physical activities that may cause excessive sweating or friction on your tattoo.
- Improper Wrapping: Don’t re-wrap your tattoo in plastic wrap (like cling film) after the initial healing phase.
- Unapproved Creams: Use only the products recommended by your tattoo artist.
- Unverified Advice: Stick with professional guidance rather than random advice about tattoo healing.
Sources & Further Reading
- NHS Guidance: Can I get a tattoo or body piercing if I’m pregnant? (UK NHS)
- American Pregnancy Association: Tattooing During Pregnancy
- WebMD Tattoo Aftercare: WebMD Tattoo Aftercare
- American Academy of Dermatology: AAD Tattoo Aftercare