Tattoo aftercare
Great tattoos are half artist, half healing. Here’s how to keep your new color crisp and bright.
First few hours
- Leave the wrap or second-skin bandage on for as long as your artist tells you.
- Wash your hands before you touch the tattoo. Every time.
- Gently wash with lukewarm water and a mild, unscented soap, then pat dry with a clean paper towel.
Days 1–14
- Apply a very thin layer of fragrance-free aftercare lotion or ointment 2–3 times a day. Thin is key.
- Expect some redness, light swelling and flaking. That is normal.
- Do not pick, peel or scratch. Let flakes fall off on their own.
- No pools, hot tubs, lakes, baths or tanning beds.
- Keep it out of direct sun and wear loose, clean clothing over it.
Weeks 2–4 and beyond
- The surface should look healed, but the skin is still settling, so keep moisturizing.
- Once healed, use SPF 30+ sunscreen every time it sees sun. Color fades fastest under UV.
- If you see spreading redness, heat, pus, fever or anything that worries you, contact a doctor.
This is general aftercare information, not medical advice. Always follow the specific instructions you are given at your appointment, and see a doctor if you notice signs of infection or an allergic reaction.
Healing FAQ
How do I take care of a new tattoo?
Keep it clean, wash gently with unscented soap and lukewarm water, pat dry, and apply a thin layer of fragrance-free aftercare lotion. Do not pick or scratch, and keep it out of the sun. Always follow the specific instructions you receive at your appointment. See the full aftercare guide on this site.
How long does a tattoo take to heal?
The surface usually heals in about two to four weeks. The deeper layers of skin keep settling for a couple of months, so keep protecting it from sun and irritation during that time.
Can I swim after getting a tattoo?
Avoid pools, hot tubs, lakes and the ocean until the tattoo has fully healed on the surface, usually at least two weeks. Soaking a fresh tattoo can cause infection and pull ink.
How do I keep a color tattoo bright?
Sun is the biggest enemy of color. Once healed, use a high SPF sunscreen on your tattoo every time it is exposed, and keep your skin moisturized. That keeps pinks, blues and yellows popping for years.
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