Tattoo Aftercare

Now that your tattoo is complete, it’s important to keep a solid aftercare routine. A fresh tattoo is an open wound and needs to be treated properly to avoid infection and complications.

Aftercare changes as products and techniques evolve. Whichever method you choose, stick with it until the tattoo is fully healed.

1 Adhesive Film (preferred when possible) 2 Wet Heal (best if adhesives aren’t tolerated) 3 Dry Heal (not preferred, sometimes necessary)

Adhesive Film

Preferred when possible

Use transparent adhesive film to protect the tattoo from bacteria and friction while it heals.

Initial Application

Cut and trim film to fit around the tattoo — include an extra inch around all sides. Tip: round corners for better comfort and adhesion.
Peel the white paper from the sticky side first and place gently over the tattoo.
Remove the clear top layer and smooth the bandage over the tattoo.
Keep the first bandage on for 3–24 hours depending on weeping; replace within 24 hours. Fluid buildup under the bandage is normal, but don’t leave it longer than 24 hours.

Removal + Reapply 2nd Bandage

To remove: pull an edge and stretch it back over itself in the direction of hair growth. Shower removal is ideal; water helps loosen adhesive and reduces trauma.
Discard used bandage. Wash tattoo with mild soap (preferably fragrance-free).
Air dry or pat dry with a clean towel.
If desired, apply a thin layer of petroleum-free moisturizer to the tattoo only. (Avoid surrounding skin if reapplying film.)
Apply the second bandage the same way as above.

Second bandage notes:

Keep the second bandage on 3–6 days (6 ideal). Remove sooner if irritated, fluid builds up, or it’s coming off.
Don’t reapply more bandages after scabbing/flaking has begun. Keep moisturized instead.
If adhesive residue remains, coconut oil or baby oil can help remove it.

Showering / Swimming / Exercise

Showering is fine, but keep it short. Water and heat can weaken adhesive and raise infection risk.
Avoid bathing/swimming/submerging while wearing film.
Light exercise is okay; avoid excessive sweating.

Infection: If you believe your tattoo has become infected, seek medical assistance ASAP to receive corrective treatment.

Wet Heal

Sterile bandage / film

It’s very important you follow these guidelines. A beautiful tattoo can turn into a disaster if proper aftercare isn’t followed.

Leave the bandage on 3–5 hours to protect from airborne bacteria.
Remove bandage, wash with lukewarm water + antibacterial soap to gently clean away aftercare cream and plasma.
Do not use a face washer or anything abrasive — your hand is best.
Pat dry (do not rub). Air the area 10–15 minutes.
Apply a very thin layer of tattoo aftercare balm, then rewrap with good quality protective film.
Repeat every few hours for 3–4 days.
After wet healing (after 3–4 days): wash, pat dry, apply very light balm/cream.
Continue 2–3 times/day for 5–7 days or until healed. Days 5–10: at least 2x/day. Days 11–21: keep clean and moisturize at least daily.
Avoid long showers/baths for 2 weeks. Avoid swimming (ocean/pool), spas, saunas. Short showers under ~10 minutes are best.
Peeling/scabbing can be normal. Don’t pick or scratch. Moisturize peeling skin; leave scabs alone.
After healed: protect from UV; use minimum 30 SPF in heavy sun/heat.

Infection: If you believe your tattoo has become infected, seek medical assistance ASAP to receive corrective treatment.

Dry Heal

Not preferred

This method is not the preferred method. However, for allergies or sensitivities to lotions/balms, it may be the only option. If possible, wet heal or use transparent wrap.

After removing the bandage: wash your tattoo using lukewarm water and antibacterial soap to gently clean the area.
Do not use a face washer or anything abrasive — your hand is best.
Pat dry (do not rub) with a clean towel or paper towel.
Apply a very light layer of tattoo balm or similar tattoo cream.
Continue at least 3 times/day for 5–7 days or until healed.
Days 5–10: apply balm/cream at least 2 times/day. Days 11–21: keep clean and moisturize at least once/day.
Avoid long showers/baths for 2 weeks. Avoid soaking/swimming/spas/saunas. Short showers under ~10 minutes are best.
Peeling/scabbing can happen. Don’t pick or scratch. If peeling, apply balm/cream; if scabbing, leave it alone.
After healed: protect from UV with minimum 30 SPF during heavy sun/heat.

Infection: If you believe your tattoo has become infected, seek medical assistance ASAP to receive corrective treatment.