Dermatologist and Pro Artist Tips (What Works, What to Avoid)

  • Hand hygiene is critical. Never touch a healing tattoo without washing your hands first, since infection is most likely in the first 48–72 hours.

  • Never over-moisturize. Choose breathable hydration and stop applying once the area looks hydrated. Thick ointments can suffocate the skin, risking poor healing and blurry ink.

  • No swimming or submerging for at least three weeks, regardless of how “healed” it looks.

  • Wear loose, soft clothing. Friction and sweat cause irritation and may introduce bacteria.

  • Start sunscreen use (SPF 30 or higher) only after the tattoo fully peels (recommend after day 14 minimally) —otherwise, occlusion could delay healing.

  • Never pick or scratch. Let flakes fall naturally. Picking increases scarring risk and color loss.

  • Monitor progress. If you have swelling, oozing that doesn’t improve, or develop yellow-green pus and fever, see a dermatologist or your tattoo artist immediately. Complications are rare with mindful aftercare, but prompt attention is key.

How do I know if my tattoo is infected?

Normal healing involves redness, swelling, and tenderness for the first 2–3 days, then peeling and itching for 1–2 weeks. Infection signs: redness and swelling that get worse after day 3 rather than better; warmth that intensifies; pus (yellow or green discharge, different from clear plasma); red streaks extending from the site; fever. If you see any of these, contact your medical provider immediately.

Aftercare instructions for your new tattoo

Aftercare helps the skin heal properly, protects the fresh tattoo from infection, and preserves color and line quality. Appropriate aftercare is just as (if not more) important than the tattoo process itself.

Day 0: Right After Your Tattoo Session

Once the tattoo is finished, the artist will clean the area and may apply a protective bandage or wrap. Leave this wrap on for 2-4 hours minimally. If the artist applied second-skin, leave on for up to 48 hours.

DO NOT touch the area with unwashed hands.

Ensure your bedding, clothing or anything touching the tattoo are freshly cleaned.

Day 0-1: First Cleanser and Air-Dry

  1. Remove the wrap with freshly washed hands.

  2. Wash the tattoo gently using lukewarm water and a fragrance-free cleanser like the one sent home with your aftercare instructions or Dial gold liquid soap.

  3. Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Let the area air-dry for around 10 minutes.

  4. Don’t use lotion on Day 1 unless specifically guided by your artist.

  5. Some redness and oozing are normal at this point.

  6. Repeat 1-2 times throughout the day. 

Days 2–3: Sensitivity, Oozing, and First Moisturizer

  • Swelling, soreness, or redness may appear. The tattoo will look and feel similar to a sunburn.

  • Use a clean, fragrance-free moisturizer (like the one included in your aftercare instructions) or a gentle tattoo balm twice daily, after each wash.

  • Repeat these steps every morning and evening or as needed. 

  • Avoid direct friction, tight clothing, sun, sweating, dirt, and swimming.

Days 4–7: Peeling and Peak Itching

  • The tattoo starts to peel or flake (similar to the aftermath of a mild sunburn).

  • Itching increases. Do not pick or scratch—gently tap the skin if needed.

  • Continue washing the tattoo regularly with a fragrance-free cleanser. 

  • Moisturize two to three times a day, with a fragrance-free moisturizer, ensuring the area stays hydrated but not greasy.

Days 8–10: Slower Peeling, Hazy Appearance

  • Peeling tapers off. The tattoo may look dull or slightly cloudy, often called the “milky phase.”

  • Residual flaking is still normal. Continue moisturizing as needed and avoid exfoliants.

  • If not dirty or sweaty, you can reduce washing to once a day with same fragrance-free cleanser.

  • The tattoo starts to peel or flake (similar to the aftermath of a mild sunburn).

  • Itching increases. Do not pick!

Days 11–14: Outer Layer Settling

  • The top layer of skin finishes peeling—your tattoo’s vivid colors start to come through.

  • The skin may feel tight or shiny. Keep moisturizing with a lightweight, fragrance-free lotion.

  • If you’re exposed to sunlight, beginning daily SPF 30 use is essential.

  • We recommend however to stay out of sun until after day 14 for optimal recovery.

Day 15–30: Surface Healed, Revealing Color

  • Tattooed skin appears healed to the eye, but the deeper layers are still recovering.

  • Continue to moisturize daily, avoid exfoliation, and apply SPF religiously before going outdoors.

  • Avoid swimming, saunas, and direct sun for at least a full month.

Months 2–6: Internal Healing and Maximum Vibrancy

  • The dermal layers (where the ink locks in) continue to stabilize pigment.

  • Support your skin with daily hydration and always use SPF to keep colors true and bold.

  • Peeling tapers off.