Tattoo Aftercare: How to Heal Your New Tattoo Safely
At Reclamation Tattoo, your safety and comfort matter just as much as the art itself. Getting a tattoo is a powerful experience, and proper aftercare ensures your new piece heals beautifully while protecting your health. Every body heals differently, but these guidelines will help you care for your tattoo with confidence.
Safety and Sanitation Guidelines
No matter which aftercare method you use, always follow basic hygiene:
Wash your hands before touching your tattoo. Use warm water and unscented soap for at least 20 seconds, then dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
Use clean linens. Sleep on fresh sheets and use clean towels while your tattoo is healing.
Watch for infection. If you notice excessive redness, swelling, pus, severe pain, or fever, contact a physician promptly.
Adhesive Bandage Aftercare
Many clients choose to leave the studio with a professional adhesive bandage (such as Saniderm). This method creates a protective barrier while your skin begins to heal.
Your tattoo artist will apply the first bandage. Leave it on for 24 hours unless instructed otherwise.
When removing the bandage, peel it off slowly under warm water. Clean your tattoo gently with fragrance-free soap and warm water, then pat dry.
Apply a thin layer of unscented, gentle ointment or lotion as needed. Recommended options include Aquaphor or a fragrance-free lotion such as Lubriderm.
Wash your tattoo 2–3 times per day and reapply a light layer of lotion for moisture.
Repeat with fresh adhesive bandages only if directed by your artist. Otherwise, continue with the lotion method.
Removal Tip: Pull the bandage down and stretch it away from the skin to release the adhesive more easily..
Old-School Aftercare (No Adhesive Bandage)
If you prefer the traditional healing method, here is what to expect:
Day 1 (tattoo day):
Apply A&D ointment to cover the tattoo.
Keep it clean and protected with plastic wrap until bedtime.
Wash gently with fragrance-free soap, then rewrap with clean plastic if sleeping overnight.
Day 2:
Remove the wrap in the morning.
Wash tattoo with fragrance-free soap and warm water, pat dry, and apply a thin layer of ointment.
Keep the tattoo uncovered as much as possible.
Day 3 and beyond:
Continue washing gently 2–3 times per day.
Switch from ointment to fragrance-free lotion once scabbing and peeling begin.
Moisturize as needed to prevent dryness and itching.
Days 4–14:
Keep the tattoo clean and lightly moisturized.
Avoid soaking, swimming, or heavy sweating until fully healed.
Let flakes and scabs fall off naturally. Do not pick.
General Tattoo Care Tips
Avoid direct sun exposure while healing.
Never scratch or pick at your tattoo.
Healing usually takes 2–4 weeks, but full skin recovery can take longer.
Protect your tattoo long term with sunscreen once healed.
Final Thoughts
Every tattoo is a collaboration between artist and client. My job is to create meaningful art; your job is to give it the best chance to heal. Whether you choose adhesive bandage aftercare or the old-school method, consistency and cleanliness are key.
If you have questions during the healing process, reach out. I’m here to help. With the right aftercare, your tattoo will not only heal safely but also remain a lasting piece of art that reflects your story.