THE FIRST 24 HOURS
Your artist will cover your fresh tattoo before you leave the shop. How long you leave it on depends on what type of wrap was used:
- Remove after 2–4 hours.
- Leave on 3–5 days unless it lifts or leaks significantly.
When you remove the wrap: wash gently with clean hands using fragrance-free soap. Pat dry with a fresh paper towel. Do not rub. Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion or Aquaphor and let it breathe.
WEEK 1: THE PEELING PHASE
Days 2–7 are when the surface skin starts to peel and flake — this is normal and expected.
- Wash 2–3x daily with fragrance-free soap
- Apply thin layer of unscented lotion 2–3x daily
- Wear loose, breathable clothing over it
- Keep it out of direct sunlight
- Stay hydrated
- Pick, scratch, or peel flaking skin
- Soak (no pools, ocean, long baths)
- Over-moisturize (thin layer only)
- Expose to direct sun
- Shave over the healing area
WEEKS 2–4: SETTLING IN
The surface looks healed — but it's not fully healed yet. The deeper skin layers are still knitting together. The tattoo may look dull, milky, or slightly faded during this period. This is temporary.
Keep moisturizing, stay out of the sun, and resist the urge to judge the final result until 6–8 weeks out. If something looks off at the 3-month mark, that's when to reach out for a touch-up conversation.
LONG-TERM CARE
☀️ SPF 50+ on healed tattoos exposed to sun. Sun bleaches ink faster than anything else — this is non-negotiable if you want your colors to stay vibrant for years.
💧 Keep skin moisturized long-term. Dry, ashy skin makes tattoos look faded.
🏥 If you see signs of infection (excessive swelling, oozing pus, red streaks, fever) — see a doctor. Infections are rare with proper care, but take them seriously.
AFTERCARE FAQ
How long does a tattoo take to heal?›
The surface of a tattoo typically heals within 2–3 weeks. Full dermal healing takes 3–6 months. During this time, avoid sun exposure and keep the skin moisturized.
Can I swim after getting a tattoo?›
No. Avoid pools, ocean water, lakes, and hot tubs for at least 3–4 weeks after your tattoo. Soaking causes the ink to leach out and increases infection risk.
What lotion should I use on a new tattoo?›
Use unscented, dye-free lotions like Lubriderm, Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion, or Aquaphor (first 2–3 days only). Avoid petroleum-heavy products after the first few days.
Is it normal for my tattoo to peel?›
Yes, completely normal. Peeling usually starts around days 4–7 and looks like a sunburn shedding. Do not pick or peel — let it fall off on its own or it can pull out ink.
My tattoo looks dull after healing — is that normal?›
Yes. A freshly healed tattoo will look milky or muted for a few weeks while the deeper skin layers settle. Give it 2–3 months before judging the final result.
What's the best sunscreen for tattoos?›
SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen, applied to healed tattoos whenever exposed to sun. Sun bleaches ink faster than anything else. Make it a habit.
When should I go back for a touch-up?›
Wait at least 3 months after your tattoo is healed before scheduling a touch-up. Most artists, including Dave, offer free touch-ups on their own work within a reasonable time frame — ask when you book.
Questions about your specific healing? Reach out.