Post-Session

Aftercare

Your tattoo is a fresh wound. How you take care of it in the first few weeks determines how it heals. Follow these instructions carefully.

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Healing Timeline

Days 1–3

Raw & tender. Keep it clean and wrapped as directed.

Days 4–14

Peeling and itching. Do not scratch or pick. Keep moisturized.

Weeks 2–4

Surface healed. Skin may look dull or cloudy — that is normal.

Months 1–6

Deep layers fully heal. Colors settle, lines sharpen.

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First 24 Hours

  • arrow_right Leave the bandage or wrap on for the time your artist specified — usually 2–4 hours, or overnight for Saniderm.
  • arrow_right When you remove the wrap, gently rinse with lukewarm water and unscented soap using clean hands only.
  • arrow_right Pat dry with a clean paper towel — never rub.
  • arrow_right Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion or tattoo-specific aftercare balm.
  • arrow_right Do not rewrap unless your artist specifically instructed you to.
  • arrow_right Expect redness, swelling, and some plasma weeping. This is normal.
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Washing Instructions

  • arrow_right Wash 2–3 times daily for the first 2 weeks.
  • arrow_right Use lukewarm water — not hot. Hot water opens pores and can pull ink.
  • arrow_right Use a fragrance-free, dye-free liquid soap. Avoid bar soap.
  • arrow_right Gently lather with clean fingertips only. No washcloths, loofahs, or sponges.
  • arrow_right Rinse thoroughly until all soap is removed.
  • arrow_right Pat completely dry with a fresh paper towel.
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Moisturizing

  • arrow_right Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion 2–3 times daily after washing.
  • arrow_right Recommended: Lubriderm, Aveeno, Hustle Butter, or tattoo-specific aftercare.
  • arrow_right Less is more. A thin coat is better than a thick layer that suffocates the skin.
  • arrow_right Do not use Vaseline, petroleum jelly, or anything scented.
  • arrow_right Keep moisturizing through the peeling phase — do not let the tattoo dry out.
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What to Avoid

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Pools & Hot Tubs

Chlorine and bacteria will damage your healing tattoo and risk infection. Avoid for at least 3–4 weeks.

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Lakes & Oceans

Natural bodies of water carry bacteria. Stay out until fully surface-healed.

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Gyms & Heavy Sweating

Sweat irritates fresh tattoos and gym equipment carries bacteria. Take a break for at least 1–2 weeks.

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Direct Sunlight

UV rays fade new tattoos fast and can cause blistering. Keep covered or out of the sun while healing.

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Scratching or Picking

Peeling skin will itch. Do not scratch, pick, or peel — it pulls out ink and causes scarring.

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Tight or Rough Clothing

Fabric rubbing on a fresh tattoo causes irritation. Wear loose, breathable clothing over the area.

DO NOT SCRATCH OR PICK

Itching is part of healing. Scratching or picking scabs pulls ink out of the skin and creates scarring. If it itches, gently pat — never scratch. This is the most important rule during healing.

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Warning Signs

Some redness, swelling, and tenderness in the first 1–3 days is completely normal. Contact your artist or seek medical attention if you notice:

  • priority_high Excessive swelling, warmth, or redness that spreads beyond the tattoo area after day 3
  • priority_high Green, yellow, or foul-smelling discharge from the tattoo
  • priority_high Fever, chills, or feeling generally unwell after getting tattooed
  • priority_high Severe pain that worsens after the first day instead of improving
  • priority_high Raised, hot skin that doesn't subside within 72 hours

Questions About Your Healing?

If something looks or feels wrong, reach out. Don't wait.

Contact RREAL INK