• Leave the bandage or wrap on for the time your artist recommended (usually 1–4 hours).

• Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the tattoo.

• Gently remove the glad wrap. If it sticks, wet it with lukewarm water to loosen adhesive and peel slowly.

• Rinse the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap. Use your clean hands no cloths or sponges.

• Pat dry with a clean paper towel or allow to air dry. Do not rub.

• Don’t apply any cream you want the tattoo clean and dry to encourage healing

• Wear loose, clean clothing over the area to avoid irritation.

The next 7–10 days

• Clean the tattoo twice daily (morning and night) with mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water.

• After each wash, pat dry and apply a thin layer of fragrance-free moisturizer or tattoo aftercare product. Use a light, non-greasy amount enough to keep the skin slightly hydrated.

• Expect normal stages: redness and mild swelling initially, then scabbing or light flaking as the skin heals. It may itch this is normal.

• Do not pick or scratch.

• Keep the tattoo protected from friction and tight clothing.

• If scabs form, allow them to fall off naturally. Picking can cause scarring and color loss.

• Continue this routine until peeling and flaking stop and the skin looks settled (often 7–14 days for surface healing; full deeper healing takes longer).

• Don’t submerge the tattoo in water (baths, pools, hot tubs, lakes, oceans) until fully healed — usually at least 2 weeks, often up to 4 weeks.

• Don’t expose the fresh tattoo to direct sunlight or tanning beds. UV rays fade and damage healing skin.

• Don’t pick, peel, or scratch scabs or flakes.

• Don’t use scented lotions, petroleum jelly, or heavy creams not formulated for tattoos unless advised by your artist.

• Don’t shave over the tattoo until healed.

• Don’t let others touch the tattoo with unwashed hands.

• Don’t assume more product is better — over-moisturizing can suffocate the skin and delay healing.

Recommended products

• Mild, fragrance-free soap: plain antibacterial or gentle cleanser (used for washing the area).

• A light, unscented moisturiser

• Bapanthan (very small amount) on areas of concern

• Sunscreen (after fully healed): broad-spectrum SPF 30+ to protect tattoo color from fading.

Final notes

• Healing varies by person and tattoo size/placement. Be patient and consistent with basic cleaning and light moisturizing.

• Proper aftercare preserves color, clarity, and reduces risk of infection. Treat your tattoo gently; it’s a lasting expression that deserves careful attention.