Tattoo Aftercare
Taking good care of your tattoo is essential to ensure proper healing and to keep your artwork looking its best for years to come. Please follow these aftercare instructions carefully:
Aftercare
1. Leave the wrap on
Your artist will cover your tattoo at the end of the session. Leave this wrap on for the time advised by your artist (usually between 2–4 hours, or up to 24 hours if a second-skin film was applied).
2. Wash your hands first
Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your tattoo to avoid introducing bacteria.
3. Clean your tattoo gently
Once you remove the wrap, gently wash your tattoo using lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Use your hands only – do not use a sponge or cloth. Pat dry with a clean paper towel or allow it to air dry.
4. Apply a thin layer of aftercare cream
When your tattoo is completely dry, apply a thin layer of a recommended tattoo aftercare cream or unscented moisturiser. Do not over-apply – your skin needs to breathe.
5. Keep it clean and moisturised
Continue cleaning and moisturising your tattoo 2–3 times a day for at least two weeks, or until it is fully healed.
6. Do not scratch or pick
As your tattoo heals, it may itch or flake. Do not scratch, peel, or pick at the scabs – this can cause ink loss or infection.
7. Avoid soaking
Do not swim, take long baths, or use saunas for at least 2–3 weeks. Showers are fine, but avoid direct water pressure on your tattoo.
8. Avoid sun exposure
Keep your tattoo out of the sun while healing. Once healed, always use high SPF sun protection to prevent fading.
9. Wear clean, loose clothing
Avoid tight fabrics that might rub or irritate the tattooed area.
10. Healing process
Every tattoo heals differently, but most take around 2–4 weeks. A light peeling or flaking stage is normal. If you notice any unusual redness, swelling, or discharge, please contact your artist or a healthcare professional.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long should I keep the wrap on?
Your artist will tell you the exact time, but usually it stays on for about 2 to 4 hours. If you’ve got that second skin film on, it might stay for up to 24 hours.
6. Can I swim or take a bath?
Not for at least 2 or 3 weeks. Showers are fine, just don’t blast your tattoo with direct water pressure.
2. What do I do when I take the wrap off?
Wash your hands first, then gently clean your tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance free soap. Use only your hands, no sponges or cloths.
7. Can I go in the sun?
Avoid sun exposure while it’s healing. After it’s healed, always use a high SPF to keep it from fading.
3. What cream should I use?
Use a tattoo aftercare cream recommended by your artist or a simple unscented moisturiser. Put on just a thin layer so your skin can breathe.
8. What clothes should I wear over my fresh tattoo?
Stick to clean, loose clothing so nothing rubs or irritates the area.
4. How many times a day should I wash and moisturise my tattoo?
About 2 or 3 times a day for at least two weeks, or until it’s properly healed.
5. My tattoo is itching. Is that normal?
Yep, totally normal. Itching and a bit of flaking happen while it heals. Just don’t scratch, peel or pick at it to avoid losing ink or causing infection.
9. How long does a tattoo take to heal?
Everyone heals differently, but most tattoos take around 2 to 4 weeks. Light peeling is normal.
10. What if something looks wrong?
If you notice unusual redness, swelling or any weird discharge, contact your artist or a healthcare professional for advice.
info@oldcitytattoos.com
+44 7415 887935
Opening Hours:
🕙 Monday to Saturday: 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM
📅 Sunday: By appointment only
Address: 41 High St, Bristol BS1 2AT, United Kingdom