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Writer's pictureRomain Berg

Tattoo Aftercare: How To Take Care of a New Tattoo

Updated: Sep 27

Tattoo aftercare being applied by a professional wearing black gloves, gently spreading ointment on a detailed arm tattoo with a yellow background.

Getting a new tattoo is exciting, but the journey doesn’t stop once you leave the tattoo chair. Tattoo care is crucial to ensure the healing of your tattoo, keeping the tattooed area vibrant and healthy for years to come. Whether it’s your first tattoo or your tenth, proper care in the days and weeks after the session is essential to avoid complications like infection, fading, or scarring.


Following a good tattoo aftercare routine ensures your skin heals smoothly and that your tattoo looks as sharp and bold as the day it was inked. From keeping it clean to moisturizing regularly, every step you take in the aftercare process impacts how your tattoo will look for the rest of your life.


At Wingnut Tattoo and Body Piercing Studio, we don’t just create art — we help you take care of it. Our talented artists are passionate about crafting custom tattoos that reflect your personality and style, and we’re dedicated to ensuring that each piece heals perfectly. If you’re in Minnesota and looking for high-quality, custom tattoo work, come visit us in Anoka or St. Cloud. Whether you want black-and-gray masterpieces or vibrant color tattoos, we’re ready to bring your vision to life. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward your next tattoo at Wingnut Studio!


Immediate Aftercare (First 24-48 Hours)


The first 24 to 48 hours after getting your tattoo are the most critical for ensuring proper healing. Here’s what you need to do to keep your new ink looking sharp and avoid complications.


Keep the Tattoo Covered


After your tattoo is completed, your artist may apply second skin or a bandage over the tattoo site to protect the fresh wound. Leave this covering on for at least a few hours, or as long as your artist recommends. This helps protect the fresh ink from bacteria and dirt, reducing the risk of infection.


Gently Clean the Tattoo


Once you remove the bandage, you’ll need to clean the tattoo. Use lukewarm water and a mild, unscented soap, like one from your recommended tattoo aftercare kit. Avoid scrubbing; instead, Gently pat the area dry with a soft cloth or clean paper towel to avoid irritating the tattooed skin. This prevents irritation to the sensitive skin and helps avoid any damage to your new tattoo.


Moisturize Regularly


Keeping your tattoo moisturized is vital for the healing process. After cleaning, apply a thin layer of lotion or antibiotic ointment that’s suitable for sensitive or tattooed skin. Be sure not to over-apply, as too much moisture can trap bacteria or cause the skin to become overly soft, which can harm the tattoo. Stick to products recommended by your tattoo artist, such as those without petroleum jelly or heavy fragrances.


Avoid Sweating, Swimming, and Sun Exposure


During the first two days, it’s best to avoid any physical activities that cause sweating, as bacteria from sweat can get into the fresh ink. Also, steer clear of swimming or soaking in water since this can introduce harmful bacteria to the healing tattoo. Direct sun exposure can cause your tattoo to fade and delay the healing process, so keep it covered if you’re outdoors.


The Healing Process (Days 3-7)


Scabbing and Peeling: What’s Normal


During this phase, you’ll likely notice your tattoo starting to form scabs and peel, which is a natural part of healing. Your skin is regenerating, and the peeling resembles what happens after a sunburn. While it can be tempting, avoid picking at the scabs or peeling skin, as this can cause scarring or pull out the ink, leading to uneven healing. The tattoo might feel itchy during this time, but it’s important to resist scratching. Instead, keep the area moisturized with a fragrance-free, alcohol-free lotion to help alleviate discomfort and support the healing process​.


Avoiding Water Exposure


While keeping your tattoo clean is essential, prolonged exposure to water should be avoided. This includes baths, swimming pools, and any standing water, as they can introduce bacteria and cause the scabs to soften and fall off prematurely. Stick to quick showers, and gently pat the area dry afterward. Soaking the tattoo can also fade the colors, so it's best to keep your fresh ink out of water until it’s fully healed​.


Maintaining Hygiene and Monitoring for Infections


Keeping your tattoo clean is crucial during this stage. Gently wash the tattoo with mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water twice a day, making sure to dry it with a clean towel afterward. While some redness and mild swelling are normal, it’s important to be on the lookout for signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, pus discharge, or severe pain. If any of these symptoms arise, contact your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional for guidance​.


Long-Term Care (Weeks 2+)


As your tattoo continues to heal beyond the first couple of weeks, there are a few important steps you should follow to keep it looking fresh and vibrant for years to come.


Moisturizing and Hydrating Your Skin


By week two, your tattoo will likely start to peel, and your skin might feel dry. Keeping your skin hydrated is key to ensuring your tattoo stays bright and sharp. Apply a fragrance-free, lightweight moisturizer daily, ideally one made specifically for tattoos. You should also drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out, as dehydrated skin can make your tattoo look dull or cracked​.


Sun Protection: Applying Sunscreen and Covering the Tattoo


Long-term sun exposure is one of the biggest threats to the vibrancy of your tattoo. UV rays can cause your tattoo to fade over time, especially if your ink contains lighter colors. After your tattoo has fully healed (around 3-4 weeks), start applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 whenever your tattoo is exposed to sunlight. You can also wear sun-protective clothing to give your tattoo extra protection​.


Adjusting Routine as Your Tattoo Heals


As your tattoo continues to heal, it’s important to adjust your care routine. By week two, you can scale back on heavy moisturizers and switch to a lighter lotion. Avoid over-moisturizing, as this can clog pores and delay healing. Keep an eye on your skin—if it feels tight or itchy, that’s a sign to add more hydration. Also, avoid tight clothing that may rub against your tattoo, and continue to keep it clean without scrubbing​.


Preventing Common Tattoo Complications


Preventing complications after getting a tattoo is crucial for ensuring that your new ink heals properly and looks great for years to come. Here are some of the most common issues that can arise and how to avoid them:


  1. Infections: Tattoos are essentially open wounds, making them vulnerable to infections if not properly cared for. To avoid infections, always wash your hands before touching your tattoo, and clean the area gently with fragrance-free, antibacterial soap. Stay away from swimming pools, hot tubs, and natural bodies of water during the healing process, as they can introduce harmful bacteria to the wound.


  2. Blowouts: A blowout occurs when the ink spreads beyond the lines of the tattoo, causing a blurry or smudged effect. This typically happens when the tattoo artist applies too much pressure or goes too deep. While blowouts are mostly the responsibility of the artist, you can reduce the risk by choosing a skilled and experienced tattoo professional.


  3. Scarring: Overworking the tattoo area or scratching it during healing can lead to scarring, which may affect the final appearance. To prevent scarring, avoid picking at scabs or scratching the tattoo, even if it feels itchy. Let your skin heal naturally and moisturize it regularly with a tattoo-safe cream​.


  4. Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions to certain ink colors, particularly red or yellow. Symptoms can include itching, swelling, or redness that doesn't go away. If you know you have sensitive skin, talk to your artist about using hypoallergenic ink​.


What is the best home remedy for tattoo aftercare?


The best home remedy for tattoo aftercare is to keep the area clean by gently washing with warm water and fragrance-free soap. Follow up with a thin layer of unscented moisturizer like coconut oil or shea butter to prevent dryness and promote healing.


The Key Takeaway


In conclusion, taking proper care of your tattoo doesn’t just ensure smooth healing in the first few weeks; it also helps your ink look vibrant for years to come. From cleaning and moisturizing to protecting it from sun damage, each step is essential in preserving your new artwork. Remember, a tattoo is a lifelong commitment, and giving it the attention it needs will make sure it stays a source of pride.


At Wingnut Tattoo and Body Piercing Studio, we understand the importance of both the art and the aftercare. Our skilled artists not only create custom designs that reflect your personality but also guide you on the best care practices. If you're in Minnesota and looking for high-quality custom tattoos, come visit us in Anoka or St. Cloud. Schedule your appointment today, and let us help you bring your next tattoo vision to life!

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