Art on skin | Art on paper | Mural Artist

after care

Tattoo Aftercare Advice

Thank you for choosing our studio for your tattoo. Proper aftercare is essential to ensure your tattoo heals well and keeps its quality. Please follow the advice below carefully.

Immediately After Your Tattoo

  • Your tattoo will be covered with a protective dressing or film by your artist.
  • Leave the covering on for 2–4 hours (or follow your artist’s specific instructions).
  • If a second skin / adhesive film was applied, leave it on for 3–5 days unless advised otherwise.

Cleaning Your Tattoo

  1. Wash your hands before touching your tattoo.
  2. Remove the covering carefully.
  3. Gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap.
  4. Use clean hands – do not use a sponge or cloth.
  5. Pat dry with a clean paper towel or allow it to air dry.

Do this 2–3 times a day.

Moisturising

  • Apply a very thin layer of tattoo aftercare cream or fragrance-free moisturiser.
  • Recommended products include:
    • Tattoo aftercare balms
    • Fragrance-free moisturisers such as E45 or similar

Do this 2–3 times daily.
Do not over-apply — your tattoo should not feel greasy.

What to Expect During Healing

Your tattoo will go through several stages:

  • Days 1–3: Redness, slight swelling, and mild soreness
  • Days 4–10: Peeling and light scabbing (similar to sunburn)
  • Days 10–21: Skin may feel slightly dry or dull while healing finishes

This is completely normal.

Do not pick or scratch the tattoo.

Things to Avoid

For at least 2–3 weeks, avoid:

  • Swimming pools, hot tubs, lakes, or the sea
  • Long baths (showers are fine)
  • Direct sunlight or sunbeds
  • Tight or abrasive clothing over the tattoo
  • Heavy gym sessions that cause excessive sweating
  • Picking scabs or peeling skin

Sun Protection

Once healed, always apply high SPF suncream (SPF 30 or higher) to protect your tattoo and maintain colour quality.

Signs of Infection

Although rare, seek medical advice if you notice:

  • Excessive redness or swelling after several days
  • Severe pain or heat around the tattoo
  • Yellow or green discharge
  • Fever or feeling unwell

Contact your tattoo artist or a GP / NHS 111 if you are concerned.

Healing Time

Most tattoos heal on the surface within 2–3 weeks, but full healing of the skin can take 4–6 weeks.

Follow aftercare instructions for the full healing period.

Questions or Concerns

If you have any concerns about your tattoo, please contact us. We are happy to help.