Tattoo Aftercare Guide
Looking after your new tattoo properly is the best way to make sure it heals well and looks amazing for years to come. Here’s everything you need to know about caring for your tattoo, whether it’s wrapped in cling film or second skin.
Cling Film
-
You can leave this on for around 2 hours or until your evening shower.
-
If you’re travelling, you can leave it a little longer, but try not to keep it on too long.
-
Once removed, the tattoo will look a bit gunky. That’s totally normal! Just follow the washing steps below.
Second Skin
-
Keep it on for 2–3 days as long as it stays sealed.
-
If it starts to leak, remove it early.
-
When it’s time to take it off, do it in the shower with lukewarm water.
-
Peel a corner gently and stretch it away from the tattoo so it lifts off slowly.
Washing Your Tattoo
Whether you had cling film or second skin, once the covering is off:
-
Wash your tattoo gently with clean hands under lukewarm water.
-
Use unscented liquid soap (Sanex 0% is a good choice). Avoid bar soaps as they can carry bacteria.
-
Let the tattoo air dry, or pat it dry with kitchen roll. Avoid towels as they hold bacteria and fibres.
-
Use an unscented cream or lotion like Palmer’s Cocoa Butter or Lubriderm.
-
Apply a thin layer twice a day after washing. Less is more, you don’t want the tattoo smothered.
Moisturising
Healing Process
-
Your tattoo will likely flake or scab, this is normal. Keep it moisturised and let it heal naturally.
-
It may feel itchy, don’t scratch it. A little cream can help soothe it.
-
Once the flakes are gone, the tattoo might still feel slightly raised or sensitive. Keep moisturising once a day.
-
Sun care: Keep your tattoo out of direct sun while healing. Only use sun cream once it’s fully healed.
Healing times vary: Black & grey tattoos: 2-3 weeks. Colour tattoos: 3-4 weeks.
The top layer will heal in a few weeks, but the tattoo continues to settle into your skin over the next few months.
Things to Avoid While Healing
Showers are fine — just wash gently and pat dry.