Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

It is important that this advice is followed to minimise the risk of infection.

Basic Aftercare

  • Avoid touching the new tattoo unnecessarily, do not allow others to touch your tattoo.
  • Do not pick or scratch your new tattoo.
  • Always wash and dry your hands before touching your new tattoo.

Daily Aftercare

  • Leave the dressing applied by your tattooist on for 2 hours before washing as below.
  • After removing the dressing, gently wash the tattoo with warm water and an antibacterial liquid soap (hand wash)
  • After your tattoo has been cleaned, gently pat dry with a clean towel
  • Leave for 5 minutes to further air dry then apply a thin layer (a pea sized amount) of aftercare cream. We recommend Fade the itch or El Gato Negro creams. If irritation occurs, discontinue use.
  • Repeat these steps 3 times a day for two weeks or until your tattoo is healed

General Advice

  • If possible, shower rather than bathe while the tattoo is healing
  • Avoid swimming/ sun beds/ sunbathing/ hot tubs until your tattoo is fully healed as chlorine and/or sunlight can interact with tattoo ink pigments, which may cause irritation/inflammation. This can also cause infection.
  • Try to wear loose clothing to minimise rubbing or irritation to a new tattoo. If you have any problems or queries regarding your tattoo, please contact us or call in and see us. We can give you advice or refer you onto your GP if required.

During Healing

  • In the first few days your tattoo will be sore, raised and potentially a little red/pink.
  • After around 3-4 days your tattoo will begin to scab over. Do not pick the scabs.
  • After around 9-14 days these scabs should begin to flake off revealing silver skin, at this point the tattoo can appear like it is disappearing, this is normal and just fresh skin healing over the area.
  • It is normal for your tattoo to feel itchy, even after it appears to be healed on the surface, it may still be healing.

If you think your tattoo may require a touch up or your unsatisfied with the healed result please contact us within 3 months of your tattoo being completed.

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