Tattoo Aftercare for Long-Lasting, Beautiful Ink
Welcome to my first blog post! What better topic to begin with than tattoo aftercare?!
If you’re new to getting tattooed this information should prove very helpful, and hopefully bring clarity to the process if you feel overwhelmed and confused on where to begin. If you are a regular tattoo client and feel you know your stuff and have your aftercare routine down, perhaps you may learn something from this post. Or maybe discover a new product you hadn’t thought to try before!
A tattoo is more than ink on skin. It is a moment chosen with care. A memory made permanent. A small transformation that stays with you. When the tattoo is finished and the needle stops, the process is not over. The days that follow are just as important. How you care for your tattoo during healing plays a big role in how it looks and how it ages. Aftercare is part of the tattoo itself.
As a professional tattoo artist of 13 years, I guide my clients through healing with care and respect. Skin is alive. It reacts, protects itself, and changes as it heals. When treated gently, it allows the artwork to settle and last.
If you are ever unsure about your healing process, reach out to your tattoo artist. Asking questions early can prevent problems later!
Why Aftercare Matters
A fresh tattoo is sensitive. The skin is open and working hard to heal. Proper aftercare helps protect the tattoo while supporting your body’s natural healing process. It also helps preserve the lines, shading, and detail placed during your session.
Healing takes time. It should not be rushed. Consistent care makes a real difference. If this is your first tattoo, or if you are healing a large or detailed piece, give yourself extra patience and rest during this stage.
Certain health and skin conditions (such as being diabetic, having eczema) can slow down the healing process and could potentially cause complications. Reach out to your tattoo artist with any concerns you may have, or if you feel your health condition may affect your healing. Letting your artist know this information in advance can help them with how to approach your tattoo sessions.
Different Ways to Heal a Tattoo
There is more than one correct way to heal a tattoo. What matters most is following the method you and your tattoo artist agree on and staying consistent. The two most common healing methods are using a second skin bandage, or healing the traditional open air method.
Healing with a Second Skin Bandage
Some tattoos are covered with a medical style adhesive bandage, often called second skin. Common examples include Saniderm or Tegaderm. These bandages protect the tattoo while allowing the skin to heal underneath. Second skin creates a barrier that helps keep out bacteria while holding in moisture and plasma that support healing. Many people find this method comfortable and low maintenance. Second skin bandages can be helpful for some tattoos and lifestyles, especially during the first few days.
If you are curious about second skin bandages or were sent home with one, you can view an example here.
If your tattoo is smaller and you don’t want to buy a giant roll of Saniderm, tegaderm works well too!
Nexcare Tegaderm Waterproof Transparent Dressing
If your tattoo is covered with a second skin bandage, follow these general guidelines unless your artist gives you different instructions:
Keep the bandage on for the amount of time recommended by your artist. This is often between three to five days. If the bandage fills with fluid, this is normal. The fluid is part of the healing process. If the bandage leaks, peels up, or becomes compromised, remove it.
To remove the bandage, do so gently in the shower under warm water. Slowly stretch the bandage away from the skin rather than pulling it straight up. Once removed, wash the tattoo gently with a mild fragrance free cleanser. Pat dry with a clean paper towel and allow it to fully dry.
After removing the bandage, continue healing the tattoo using the traditional aftercare method. If this bandage filled up with fluid the first day, you can also replace the bandage with a fresh second skin bandage and continue to wear for 3-5 days, then repeat the removal process above. Clean gently and apply a thin layer of unscented moisturizer as needed.
If you have a reaction to the adhesive such as redness, itching, or irritation outside the tattoo area, remove the bandage and switch to traditional healing. I advise buying a small sample of product and putting it on an area of skin before your scheduled appointment, in a different area from where you plan to get your tattoo. That way you can see how your skin reacts before spending the money on a large roll of product, only to discover you have a serious adhesive allergy.
I have used these bandages myself, and find they work best on areas that get minimal movement. When I placed the bandages on areas where the skin twists a lot, like into the armpit area under my arm, I have had issues with irritation along the edges of the bandage. Even though I do not have adhesive allergies, I have had some mishaps using this method. Just a heads up!
Here is a link to a video showing how to use Saniderm/Tegaderm if you need to see how the product is used and applied:
Traditional Healing
The traditional healing method involves gently washing the tattoo and applying a light layer of moisturizer as it heals. With this method the tattoo is washed two to three times a day with a mild fragrance-free cleanser, then moisturized with lotion or healing ointment for 2-3 weeks until the tattoo is healed.
Cleansing the Skin with Care
During the first few days, washing your tattoo should be done gently. Cleaning helps prevent infection while keeping the skin calm and balanced.
Choose a mild, fragrance free cleanser that keeps the area clean without drying it out.
Avoid products with:
• Heavy fragrance
• Scrubs or exfoliants
• Alcohol
Keeping things simple is best!
Choosing a gentle cleanser helps protect healing skin and prevents irritation. If you are unsure where to start, look for a mild wash made for sensitive skin.
You can find the type of cleanser I often recommend here.
Hibiclens Antiseptic/Antimicrobial Skin Cleanser
After washing, allow the tattoo to dry and apply a thin layer of unscented lotion or tattoo balm. Traditional healing works best when you use gentle products and stay consistent.
If you need a simple unscented lotion for daily healing, this is a good option to consider.
Curel Fragrance Free Comforting Body Lotion
Be mindful of clothing, bedding, and anything that may rub against the tattoo during the first few days!
I suggest changing out your sheets for an older set you don’t mind getting stained with tattoo ink or ointment. I would make sure they are clean and free from pet hair if your cat or dog sleeps in the bed with you.
It takes a tattoo 2-3 weeks to fully heal using both the second skin method and the traditional healing method.
Moisturizing Without Overdoing It
Moisture supports healing, but too much can cause irritation! Apply a thin layer and allow the skin to absorb it fully. Your tattoo should feel comfortable, not greasy.
I often recommend:
• Tattoo specific balms
• Unscented lotions
• Lightweight healing ointments
Using the right moisturizer can make healing more comfortable and help prevent dryness and itching. Keep it simple and apply only a thin layer.
If you are looking for a moisturizer that works well during healing, this is one I often suggest.
CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion
Here is a list of tattoo balms I also recommend.
Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm & Aftercare Cream
Mad Rabbit Tattoo Aftercare Soothing Gel & Moisturizer
If you notice redness, swelling, or irritation, reduce how often you apply product and give your skin time to breathe.
I know some folks use Aquaphor as an aftercare ointment. It isn’t wrong to use this to heal a fresh tattoo, but it can be heavy as it is petroleum based. A little goes a very long way. I myself do not use anything heavy like Aquaphor or A&D ointment. There are better products on the market now than there used to be. These products cause me to break out and have issues healing, so I personally do not recommend them. I have heard the same from many other clients. In the end, use what works for your own skin!
What to Avoid While Healing
While your tattoo heals (2-3 weeks), try to avoid:
• Picking or scratching
• Swimming or soaking in water
• Direct sunlight
• Strong or scented products
These habits can affect how your tattoo heals and how it looks long term. Excessive sunlight exposure can cause fading for example, and I highly advise daily sunblock application to protect your ink when it is exposed.
You can shower with a fresh tattoo! Just don’t soak your tattoo for too long and wash your tattoo last to remove any other skin care or hair care products out of the fresh tattoo.
Mad Rabbit Defend Tattoo Sunscreen- SPF 30
If something feels off or uncomfortable, trust your instincts and reach out to your tattoo artist for guidance. I ask all my clients to email me with the subject of the email titled “Attention Aftercare”, so I know to get back right away to address any concerns or questions.
Final Thoughts
A tattoo is meant to stay with you for many years. The care you give it in the beginning helps protect both your skin and the artwork. Slow down. Be gentle. Check in with your body.
If you found this guide helpful, consider saving it for later or sharing it with someone who is healing a new tattoo. Small choices during healing can make a lasting difference! If you have questions about aftercare or are planning a future tattoo, you are always welcome to reach out or book a consultation.
With intention and care,
Neona
The Neon Lady
Neon Lady Tattoo
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