After the Session

A few hours after getting your tattoo (usually 2-3 hours), or once you’re back home, carefully remove the wrap and gently clean the tattoo using warm water and an unscented, gentle soap. Be sure to remove any sticky plasma completely, as it can lead to scabbing and potential complications that are best avoided.

Allow the tattoo to air dry for about a minute, or pat it dry gently using a single-use paper towel. Repeat this cleaning routine every morning and evening throughout the entire aftercare period.

It's normal for the tattooed area to feel slightly warm and appear red for a few days—this is just your body's natural reaction to the process, so be kind to yourself. If you've had a particularly long day, you might feel fatigued. In that case, consider taking ibuprofen to ease discomfort. Make sure to eat a nourishing meal and get plenty of rest, as the tattooing process requires a significant amount of your body’s energy.

The Following Days

Typically, a tattoo takes between 10 days and two weeks to fully heal. I recommend allowing the tattoo to "dry heal" for the first two to three days since your skin will still be releasing plasma, and additional moisture isn’t necessary during this period.

After a few days, the skin will start to feel dry, and at that point, you can begin moisturizing. Apply a small amount of cream especially if the tattoo feels dry or tight—about three times per day for the next ten days.

Always wash your hands before applying moisturizer. Avoid over-moisturizing, as it can restrict the skin's ability to breathe properly, leading to bubbling or damage to the tattoo.

Palmer’s Cocoa Butter is a good choice and is widely available in pharmacies like Superdrug and Boots. Alternatively, you can also you Aveeno or Cicaplast. I do not recommend Bepanthen.

Your tattoo will start to peel, and you might notice small flakes coming off when you apply moisturizer. It might seem like your tattoo is coming off, but don't worry—this is completely normal. The area may also become itchy; resist the urge to scratch it. If it becomes uncomfortable, you can gently massage the area instead.

While your tattoo is healing, avoid wearing tight clothing, swimming, using hot tubs, or submerging the area in the bath. Steer clear of intense exercise for at least a week post-tattoo. Avoid wearing any synthetic fabrics and wool around the healing area to prevent irritation. Best is to only wear cotton.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. Should you feel the need for a touch-up, I provide it for free within a year of your initial appointment. However, it’s usually best to wait a few months to allow the tattoo to fully settle.

Second Skin/Dermalize Aftercare

If you’re using a protective film like Second Skin or Dermalize, it can be left on for up to five days. This layer helps your tattoo heal without much intervention. It may appear oozy or squishy underneath, but this is perfectly normal.

Only remove the film earlier if fluid is leaking from the edges (which could allow bacteria to enter) or if the film feels very itchy and uncomfortable. When removing it after five days, do so gently, ideally while showering, to minimize irritation.

After removing the film, thoroughly wash the tattoo using unscented soap. Allow it to air dry for a minute, or pat it dry with a clean towel or kitchen roll. Afterward, moisturize with cocoa butter 1-3 times a day for the next ten days.