Just got your new tattoo? Proper aftercare is essential to make sure it heals beautifully and stays vibrant for years to come.
A fresh tattoo may look like a completed piece of art, but underneath the surface your skin is still undergoing active repair. No matter the tattoo’s size or placement, you are essentially caring for an open wound for the first few days to weeks. Good hygiene, smart habits and a solid aftercare plan make all the difference in how your tattoo heals and ultimately how it looks long term.
I will walk you step-by-step through everything you need to know about looking after your fresh tattoo. You will learn what to do, what to avoid and the most common mistakes people make during the healing phase. By the end, you will feel confident about maintaining your new tattoo safely and effectively.
Follow Your Tattooist’s Instructions First
One of the most overlooked pieces of aftercare advice is also the most important: follow the instructions your tattoo artist gives you, exactly as they give them!! Every professional tattooist develops their preferred aftercare routine based on experience, technique, equipment and skin responses they've observed over time. You may see plenty of generic advice online but your artist’s guidance should always take priority.
Your artist will know:
- What kind of ink and equipment were used
- Your skin type and how it responded during the session
- How their way of tattooing generally heals on different skin types
- The style and placement of the tattoo both of which influence healing
Because tattoo artists work hands on with fresh tattoos every day their instructions will be tailored to your specific piece.
Before you leave the studio, ask questions, ask if they have written instructions.
If you are unsure how often to wash, how much ointment to apply or how long to keep the wrap on, ask your artist before you walk out the door. There is no such thing as a silly question when it comes to wound care.
Keep It Clean
Keeping your tattoo clean is one of the fundamental pillars of proper aftercare. Because freshly tattooed skin is vulnerable to bacteria, dirt and irritation, you must clean it regularly but gently.
How to Clean a Fresh Tattoo
-
Wash your hands first.
Never touch your tattoo with unwashed hands. This simple habit prevents countless healing issues. -
Gently wash the tattoo 2–3 times per day.
Use warm (not hot) water and a mild, fragrance-free, alcohol-free soap. Harsh soaps strip the skin and disrupt healing. -
Rinse thoroughly.
Ensure no soap or residue remains, as leftover product can cause irritation. -
Pat dry — do not rub.
Use a clean, soft towel or paper towel. Rubbing can pull at the skin or damage the healing area.
Basically, treat the tattoo like delicate skin because that’s exactly what it is right now.
Moisturise Appropriately
Hydration is essential for healing but overdoing it can cause problems. Your tattoo needs to breathe while remaining moisturised enough to prevent cracking and excessive scabbing.
Choosing the Right Moisturiser
Use a tattoo-specific ointment recommended by your artist. Avoid petroleum-heavy products unless your tattooist specifically advises them.
How to Apply
- Use a thin layer, just enough to create a light film
- Over application can suffocate the skin, trap bacteria and delay healing.
- Apply 2–3 times daily, depending on your artist’s instructions and your skin type.
Why Moisturising Matters
Proper hydration:
- Prevents deep, hard scabs
- Minimises itching and tightness
- Supports even colour retention
- Helps your tattoo heal smoothly and consistently
Avoid Sun & Swimming
Your fresh tattoo is not ready for exposure to the elements. The combination of UV rays, bacteria and moisture can cause significant issues.
Protect from Sun Exposure
UV rays are notorious for fading tattoos and fresh ink is especially vulnerable. Avoid direct sunlight entirely for the first few weeks. This includes:
- Sunbathing
- Tanning beds
- Sitting in direct sun for prolonged periods
If you must be outdoors, cover your tattoo with loose, clean clothing until it is fully healed. Do not apply sunscreen to a fresh tattoo- sunscreen is only safe once the skin has completely healed.
Avoid All Swimming
Fresh tattoos should not be submerged in:
- Pools
- Spas and hot tubs
- Rivers and lakes
- The ocean
- Baths
These environments introduce bacteria, chemicals and excessive moisture that can lead to infection or ink loss. Showers are safe — soaking is not.
Avoid Picking or Scratching
As your tattoo heals, it may itch, flake or form light scabs. This is a normal part of the process but touching the tattoo can cause real damage.
Why Picking Is Harmful
Picking can lead to:
- Patchy colour loss
- Scarring
- Uneven texture
- Longer healing times
- Increased risk of infection
How to Manage Itching
- Apply a thin layer of your ointment
- Gently tap the area instead of scratching
- Applying something cool
Touching peeling skin can be tempting but letting it fall off naturally is essential for proper healing.
Watch for Signs of Infection
Understanding what normal healing looks like versus potential infection is crucial. Fresh tattoos may appear slightly red, warm and tender, especially in the first few days. This is expected. However, more severe symptoms need attention.
Normal Healing
- Mild redness
- Light swelling
- Gentle tenderness
- Minimal clear fluid
- Peeling or flaking after several days
Possible Infection Signs
- Intense or spreading redness
- Hot, swollen, or throbbing skin
- Thick yellow or green discharge
- Strong unpleasant odour
- Fever or chills
- Increasing pain instead of decreasing
If you suspect infection, contact your tattooist or a healthcare professional immediately. Early action prevents complications.
Lifestyle Considerations for Healing
Your body plays a major role in how well your tattoo heals. Good overall health supports faster, cleaner recovery of your tattooed skin.
Hydration and Nutrition
Drink plenty of water and consume a balanced diet rich in:
- Vitamins A, C, and E
- Protein
- Healthy fats
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Zinc
Healthy skin heals better and your tattoo benefits directly.
Limit Alcohol and Smoking
Excessive alcohol and smoking can:
- Slow down wound healing
- Thin the blood
- Increase inflammation
- Dry out the skin
Keeping consumption moderate or minimal during the first few weeks can support better outcomes.
Exercise Carefully
If your tattoo is in an area that moves, stretches or experiences friction (e.g., ribs, thighs, elbows), high-intensity workouts can irritate the skin.
Consider:
- Light to moderate activity
- Avoiding pressure from tight clothing or equipment
- Showering soon after sweating
Sweat and friction can disrupt the healing process, so listen to your body and adjust your routine.
Long-Term Care
Once your tattoo is fully healed, aftercare does not end it simply shifts into maintenance mode. Long term care keeps the tattoo bright, sharp and healthy for years.
Use Sunscreen
Sunscreen is your tattoo’s best long-term defence. Choose SPF 30 or higher and apply generously whenever your tattoo is exposed. This reduces fading and protects your skin from UV damage.
Ongoing Moisturising
Regular moisturising maintains your skin’s elasticity and vibrancy. Well-hydrated skin keeps tattoos looking fresher and more saturated.
Consider Touch-Ups
Even the best-healed tattoos occasionally need refreshing. After the initial healing phase — generally a few months speak with your artist if you notice any small light spots or inconsistencies.
Fresh tattoo aftercare is not just a routine, it is an essential part of protecting your new artwork. By keeping the area clean, moisturised and shielded from harmful environments, you give your tattoo the best chance to heal smoothly and look vibrant for years to come.
-Jaz Anna
