Protect the work. Support the healing. Care for your tattoo properly.
Following the correct aftercare will help your skin heal and preserve the detail, clarity and colour of your tattoo.
Always follow the specific instructions provided by your artist, as aftercare may vary depending on the tattoo, placement and dressing used.
Protect Your Tattoo
Your artist will clean and cover the tattoo before you leave the studio. Keep the dressing in place for the length of time advised by your artist.
Different dressings require different care, so do not remove or replace yours earlier than instructed. Some redness, tenderness and fluid beneath the dressing can be expected during the initial healing period.
The healing process begins as soon as your appointment ends
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Keep It Clean
clean hands and gentle care help protect healing skin
Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo. Once your artist has advised you to remove the dressing, gently clean the area using lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance free soap.
Do not scrub the tattoo or use a sponge, flannel or exfoliating product. Rinse it carefully and pat the area dry using a clean paper towel. Allow the skin to dry fully before applying any product recommended by your artist.
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Allow It to Heal
Give your skin the time and space it needs to recover
As your tattoo heals, the skin may feel dry, tight or itchy. Light flaking and peeling can also be part of the normal healing process.
Do not scratch, pick or remove peeling skin. Allow it to come away naturally. Apply only a thin layer of the aftercare product recommended by your artist, as using too much can prevent the skin from breathing properly.
WASH YOUR HANDS
CLEAN THE TATTOO GENTLY
RINSE WITH LUKEWARM WATER
PAT THE AREA DRY
MOISTURISE AS ADVISED
During Healing
Until your tattoo has fully healed, avoid activities and environments that could irritate the skin or increase the risk of infection.
Your artist can provide more specific guidance based on the size and placement of your tattoo.
Avoid:
protect your tattoo from moisture, friction and unnecessary irritation
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SWIMMING
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BATHS AND HOT TUBS
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SAUNAS AND STEAM ROOMS
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DIRECT SUNLIGHT
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SUNBEDS
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TIGHT OR RUBBING CLOTHING
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INTENSE EXERCISE THAT AFFECTS THE AREA
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DIRTY OR DUSTY ENVIRONMENTS
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UNRECOMMENDED CREAMS OR PRODUCTS
Additional note:
Showering is normally fine, but avoid soaking the tattoo or holding it directly beneath strong or very hot water.
Some tenderness, mild redness and itching can be expected during healing. These symptoms should gradually improve rather than become more severe.
Contact your artist if you are concerned about how the tattoo is healing. Seek medical advice if the area becomes increasingly painful, hot or swollen, if redness continues to spread, or if you notice discharge or feel unwell.
Important note:
Your tattoo artist can advise you about the normal healing process, but they cannot diagnose or treat an infection. For urgent medical advice, contact NHS 111 or your GP.
Once the tattoo has completely healed, keep the skin moisturised and protect it from prolonged sun exposure.
Use a high protection sunscreen whenever the tattoo is exposed to sunlight. Consistent skin care and sun protection will help maintain the appearance of the tattoo over time.