Overview

A new tattoo is an open wound, caused by multiple punctures to the skin from the tattoo needles. The risk of infection is highest in the first 48 hours. Healing typically takes 2-4 weeks, with complete lower-layer healing taking 3-4 months.

Immediately After Your Tattoo

Your artist will apply a protective covering (cling film or self-adhesive film). Remove cling film within 2-3 hours; self-adhesive film within 24 hours. Wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap before removal. Gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap using circular motions. Pat dry with paper towels — never fabric towels. Allow overnight air-drying without reapplication of covering.

Days 1-3

Wash your tattoo 2-3 times a day, avoid bathing or submerging the tattoo under water, opt for short showers instead. The tattoo develops a duller, cloudier appearance as scabs form. Apply thin moisturiser layers (Lubriderm, Aquaphor, Aveeno) after drying. Wear loose, clean clothing to prevent rubbing.

Days 4-7

Redness fades and scabs fully form. It is vital to avoid any picking, peeling or unnecessary touching or scratching the tattoo scabs. Reduce washing/moisturising to 1-2 times daily if peeling begins. Continue wearing loose clothing.

Days 8-14

Scabs harden and flake off. The area may feel dry and itchy — apply moisturiser gently as needed. Wash once daily. Seek medical attention if redness and swelling persist, indicating possible infection.

Days 15-30

Large flakes disappear; dead skin clears gradually. Continue moisturising until skin appears hydrated. Outer layers fully heal by week three. By month three, the tattoo should appear as intended. It is normal for the tattoo to look slightly lighter when fully healed.

Important: Hand Washing

Hand washing is the single most important method of reducing infection. Always use antibacterial soap and paper towels before touching your tattoo.

During Healing — Avoid

• Rewrapping the tattoo
• Picking, peeling, or scratching scabs
• Bathing or submersion; use short showers only
• Direct sun exposure and sunbeds
• Excessive sweating from exercise (at least one week)
• Swimming, saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs, jacuzzis, massages
• Contact with unhygienic surfaces (dirty clothing, pets, sofas, etc.)
• Tight-fitting clothing; wear loose cotton instead
• Harsh chemical products; use unscented, alcohol-free alternatives
• Perfume, aftershave, aerosols on the tattoo
• Non-recommended skin products and petroleum-based products
• Over-moisturising, which causes delayed healing and infection
• Sharing moisturiser or dipping fingers in pots; use clean spatulas or spoons
• Dehydration; drink plenty of water
• Poor nutrition; eat nutrient-rich foods and get adequate sleep

After Healing — Maintenance

• Maintain hydration and skin elasticity
• Wear sun-protective clothing and apply sunscreen to prevent fading and blurring
• Avoid rapid weight gain/loss to prevent distortion
• Wait 4 months before donating blood (NHS requirement)
• Inform radiologists about tattoos before MRI scans (may cause tingling)
• Avoid laser hair removal, which may turn tattooed areas black

Signs of Infection

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Increasing swelling, rash, and redness
• Severe burning and throbbing sensation
• Increased tenderness and pain
• Unusual discharge (yellow/green) with offensive odour
• Fever within 24 hours post-tattoo