Tattoo Aftercare

Download our Tattoo Aftercare Sheet for General Guidance, however please follow the advice of your Tattoo Artist

Aftercare / Minimising Risk of Complications:
Avoid unnecessary touching, scratching or picking to reduce the risk of introducing infection
Always Wash and Dry your hands before and after touching a new tattoo
Your new tattoo should be kept covered for at least an hour using the sterile, non adherent dressing applied. The dressing will stop the tattoo catching on clothing or being exposed to air-borne bacteria and other contaminants. The dressing will also help to stop bleeding and oozing but should be removed before it dries onto the treated area

After removal of the dressing, gently wash the tattoo with warm water and pat dry with a clean paper towel or tissue. Do not rub or skin will become irritated.

If possible shower rather than bathe so that unnecessary water exposure is prevented.
Do not use products on the tattoo that have not been recommended by your artist or are not intended for open wound healing. You may apply moisturising cream 2-3 times a day to assist healing and prevent skin cracking, but avoid petroleum based creams as they will affect healing. You should not share skin products with others.
After approximately 2 weeks any scabbing should have gone. The area should be completely healed in a further 10-14 days
Avoid Swimming, sunbeds and exposure to the Sun or UV light until your tattoo is fully healed. Sunlight/Chlorine can interact with the tattoo pigment causing irritation and inflammation.

Try to wear loose cotton clothing to minimise rubbing and irritation whilst the tattoo is healing.
Always keep a new tattoo covered and protected if working in a dirty/dusty/oily environment.

If you have any problems or queries please contact your tattoo artist, he/she will refer you onto your GP if there are any signs of adverse reaction/infection.