Tattoo aftercare
How to take care of a new tattoo, and what normal healing looks like.
Julie gives every client aftercare instructions at the appointment. If anything here is different from what she told you, follow her instructions. That includes which bandage or film she uses and how long to leave it on.
The first few days
- Leave the wrap on as long as Julie told you.
- Wash gently with clean hands, lukewarm water and an unscented soap. Pat dry with a clean paper towel.
- Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion or aftercare balm. Too much can suffocate the tattoo.
- Repeat two or three times a day.
Healing timeline
- Days 1–3: redness, tenderness and some oozing of ink and plasma are normal.
- Days 4–14: flaking, peeling and itching. Don’t pick or scratch.
- Weeks 2–4: the surface looks healed but can look cloudy while the deeper skin finishes.
Avoid while it heals
- Pools, hot tubs, lakes and baths (showers are fine)
- Direct sun and tanning beds
- Tight clothes rubbing the tattoo
- Picking, scratching or peeling flakes
Long term
Sunscreen is the best way to keep a tattoo sharp once it’s healed.
When to call a doctor
Redness or swelling that keeps spreading after the first few days, pus, a fever, or red streaks can be signs of infection. See a doctor, and let Julie know.
Questions
When can I swim?
Wait until the tattoo is fully healed, usually two to four weeks.
Is peeling normal?
Yes. Light flaking like a sunburn is normal. Let it come off on its own.