How to care

Immediate Aftercare

1. Keep It Covered:

Your tattoo will be covered with a protective wrap before you leave. Leave this on for the time recommended by your artist (typically 1-2 hours).

2. Wash Your Hands:

Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your tattoo to prevent introducing bacteria to the healing area.

3. Gently Clean Your Tattoo:

Once you remove the wrap, gently wash your tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Use your clean hands (no cloths or loofahs) to remove any plasma, ink, or ointment residue.

4. Pat Dry:

Use a clean, soft paper towel or lint-free cloth to pat your tattoo dry. Avoid rubbing, as this can irritate the skin.

Ongoing Aftercare (First Two Weeks)

1. Moisturise:

Apply a thin layer of tattoo-specific ointment or a fragrance-free, alcohol-free moisturiser recommended by your artist. Use sparingly—your tattoo should not feel wet or greasy.

2. Avoid Picking or Scratching:

As your tattoo heals, it will likely scab and itch. Avoid scratching or picking at the area, as this can cause scarring or ink loss.

3. Stay Clean:

Keep your tattoo clean but avoid soaking it in water (no baths, swimming, or saunas). Showers are fine, but don’t let your tattoo sit under direct water pressure for extended periods.

4. Wear Loose Clothing:

Avoid tight clothing over your tattoo to prevent rubbing or irritation. Choose soft, breathable fabrics to allow proper healing.

5. Protect It From the Sun:

Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight, as UV rays can damage the healing skin and fade the ink. Once healed, always use sunscreen on your tattoo to maintain its vibrancy.

What to Expect During Healing

• First Few Days: Your tattoo may feel tender, swollen, or slightly red—this is normal.

• Peeling & Scabbing: Within a week, you’ll notice peeling or small scabs forming. This is part of the healing process.

• Itching: As your tattoo heals, itching is common. Resist the urge to scratch!

Long-Term Care Tips

• Hydrate Your Skin: Keeping your skin moisturised helps your tattoo stay vibrant.

• Protect From Sun Damage: Regularly apply high-SPF sunscreen to your tattoo.

• Avoid Harsh Products: Stay away from exfoliants or harsh chemicals on your tattooed skin.

Signs of Concern

If you notice excessive redness, swelling, pain, or discharge, contact your artist or seek medical advice. These could be signs of an infection or allergic reaction.

By following these aftercare steps, you’re giving your tattoo the best chance to heal beautifully and remain a stunning piece of art for years to come. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Ink Haus—we’re here to support you every step of the way!