Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience, whether it’s your first small piece or a bold full sleeve tattoo, full back tattoo, or even a hand tattoo. But the real work begins once you leave the studio. Proper aftercare is key to ensuring your tattoo heals beautifully and stays vibrant for years to come.
Here’s everything you need to know about taking care of your fresh ink, straight from the experts at London’s best tattoo studio.
Step 1: The First Few Hours Are Crucial
After your tattoo session, your artist will apply a dressing to protect your new ink. Leave it on for at least two hours but no more than five. This helps prevent airborne bacteria from infecting your tattoo and allows the dressing to absorb any fluids.
Once it’s time to remove the dressing:
Gently wash your tattoo with antibacterial soap. Use your hands—no washcloths or anything abrasive.
Pat the area dry with a clean towel or paper towel. Don’t rub!
Apply a thin layer of Bepanthen cream to keep the area moisturized.
Step 2: The First Three Days
The first three days are the most critical for preventing infection. Wash your tattoo 3-4 times a day with antibacterial soap, making sure to clean it before reapplying cream. And don’t forget: wash your hands before touching your tattoo.
Keep your tattoo constantly moisturized—don’t let it dry out! A dry tattoo can scab, and scabs often pull ink out, leaving your tattoo patchy.
Step 3: General Aftercare Tips for a Perfect Heal
Keep Pets Away: Love your furry friends, but keep them at a distance from your fresh tattoo! Pets can carry bacteria that could lead to infection.
No Scratching or Picking: Itchy tattoos are part of the healing process, but don’t scratch or peel the flaky skin. This can cause scarring and color loss.
Avoid Soaking: Skip the swimming pool, jacuzzi, and long baths for the first week. Stick to showers instead.
Stay Out of the Sun: Sunlight can damage a healing tattoo. Wait until it’s fully healed, then use a strong sunscreen for protection.
No Steam Rooms or Saunas: These can slow down the healing process and increase your risk of infection.
How Long Does It Take to Heal?
The healing process usually takes 7-10 days. Proper care during this time ensures your tattoo looks amazing for years to come. The full recovery of the skin is 6 months
Why Aftercare Is So Important
At Straight Lines Tattoo, we work hard to make sure every tattoo is a masterpiece—whether it’s a hand tattoo or a stunning full leg tattoo. But the final result depends just as much on you as it does on us. Good aftercare ensures your tattoo heals cleanly, with vibrant colors and sharp details intact.
Ready for Your Next Tattoo?
Whether you’re planning a full sleeve tattoo, a hand tattoo, or something even bigger, Straight Lines Tattoo is here to bring your ideas to life. With some of the best tattoo artists in London, we’ll make sure your tattoo stunning.
Book your next session today and get ready to wear your story on your skin
Comments