Posted by Support Team
on April 24, 2025
So, you’ve just gotten a beautiful new tattoo! Whether it’s your first or your tenth, taking care of your tattoo is essential to ensure it heals properly and stays vibrant for years to come. A little TLC will go a long way in helping your artwork look amazing long after it’s healed.
Here’s a helpful, easy-to-follow guide to tattoo aftercare that will make sure your new ink is treated with the love and care it deserves.
1. Let It Breathe, But Keep It Clean
Right after getting your tattoo, your artist will typically cover it with a bandage or wrap. Leave this on for a few hours or follow your artist's instructions on how long to keep it covered. Once you remove the wrap, gently wash the area with lukewarm water and a mild, unscented soap. Be sure to pat it dry with a clean towel—don’t rub, as that can irritate your skin!
2. Apply a Thin Layer of Ointment
After cleaning, you’ll want to apply a thin layer of tattoo ointment or a special tattoo aftercare lotion. Don't overdo it—just a thin layer is all you need. Applying too much can clog pores and prevent your skin from breathing. Always use a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic ointment to avoid irritation.
3. Moisturise, Moisturise, Moisturise
After the initial healing stage, keep your tattoo moisturised. Use a fragrance-free lotion or a tattoo-specific aftercare lotion. Hydrating your tattoo helps prevent scabbing, cracking, or excessive dryness, which can lead to fading. The key is to keep it nourished without overloading it with product.
Check out our Migh-Tea Moisture Balm (Fragrance-Free)!
4. Avoid Scratching or Picking
One of the hardest things to do during the healing process is resisting the urge to scratch or pick at your tattoo. While it might itch as it heals, scratching can damage your tattoo and cause scarring. Instead, gently tap or apply a bit more lotion if the itchiness becomes unbearable.
5. Stay Out of the Sun
During the healing process (usually for at least 2-3 weeks), you’ll want to keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight. UV rays can damage the skin and cause your tattoo to fade prematurely. After it’s fully healed, always apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your tattoo when you’re out in the sun.
6. Keep It Clean and Dry
During the first few weeks, avoid soaking your tattoo in water—no swimming in pools, hot tubs, or lakes! Showers are fine, but keep your tattoo away from direct streams of water. Avoid tight clothing that may rub against the tattoo, especially when it's fresh and healing.
7. Wear Loose Clothing
If your tattoo is in a spot that will be covered by clothing (like the back, thighs, or arms), try to wear loose clothing that doesn’t rub against it. Tight clothing can cause friction, leading to irritation or rubbing off your healing skin, which can impact the final look of your tattoo.
8. Be Patient
Healing takes time! Everyone’s skin heals at different rates, but typically, tattoos will take about 2-4 weeks to heal. Don’t rush the process—be patient and follow the aftercare tips, and you'll enjoy your tattoo for many years to come. Tattoos are a lifelong commitment, and that means giving them the time they need to fully heal!
9. Watch Out for Infection
It’s normal for a new tattoo to be red or swollen for a few days, but if you notice excessive pain, pus, or signs of infection (such as fever), it’s important to contact your artist or a healthcare professional right away. Keeping the tattoo clean and moisturised will help prevent infection, but be on the lookout just in case.
10. Don’t Cover It Up
Once your tattoo is healed enough, avoid wrapping it in bandages or tight clothing that doesn’t allow it to breathe. Fresh air is essential for healing, so let your tattoo breathe as much as possible while still protecting it from the sun and dirt.
11. Healing Doesn’t End After Two Weeks
While the outer layer of skin may appear healed after a couple of weeks, the tattoo itself is still settling deeper into your skin. Continue to care for it even after the scabbing and peeling are gone, and remember that tattoos can take a full month or more to completely heal. Keep moisturising and protecting it long after the scabs are gone!
In Conclusion...
Your tattoo is a beautiful piece of art, and the aftercare process plays a huge role in making sure it stays looking fresh. By following these tips, you’re giving your tattoo the best chance to heal properly, ensuring that it looks as great as it did the day you got it.
Just remember, every tattoo heals a little differently, so it’s important to listen to your skin. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your tattoo artist—they’re the best resource when it comes to taking care of your ink!su
