Tattoo Tips:
A complete guide to
getting a tattoo
Ready to get your first tattoo or add to your collection? This guide has everything you need to know!
From choosing the right numbing cream to preparing for your appointment, and aftercare tips to ensure your tattoo heals beautifully, this guide will walk you through every step of the process.
Whether you're nervous or excited, this guide will help make your tattoo journey smooth, informed, and unforgettable.
Aftercare:
How to Care for
Your New Tattoo
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1. Keep It Covered
Your artist will wrap your tattoo before you leave the studio. Leave the bandage on for at least 1-3 hours, or longer if they used Saniderm (usually 3–4 days). Follow their specific instructions for when to remove it.
When you’re ready to remove the film, wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap.
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2. Wash Gently
Once the film is off, clean your tattoo with a gentle, fragrance-free liquid soap and lukewarm water. Use your fingertips to wash the area, avoiding scrubbing or rubbing. Pat it dry with a clean paper towel.
Avoid harsh soaps, hot water, or exfoliating products, as they can irritate your skin.
It’s normal to see a little ink run off during the first washes—don’t worry, that’s just excess ink.
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3. Moisturize Regularly
After cleaning, apply a thin layer of aftercare cream to keep your tattoo hydrated. This prevents cracking, dryness, and irritation.
Moisturize 1–2 times daily during the healing process.
Avoid petroleum or lanolin based products, as they can trap bacteria and slow healing (eg. Vasoline or Bepanthem)
Once your tattoo has fully healed (usually after 2–4 weeks), switch to a daily body lotion to keep your skin hydrated and your tattoo looking fresh.
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4. Protect Your Tattoo from the Sun
Fresh tattoos are extremely sensitive to sunlight.
Avoid direct sun exposure for the first 2–4 weeks.
Cover your tattoo with loose clothing if you’ll be outdoors.
After healing, always apply sunscreen to protect your ink from fading.
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5. Avoid Strenuous Activity
Skip workouts for at least 48 hours to avoid stretching or irritating the area.
Avoid heavy exercise for the first 4–6 weeks and clean your tattoo immediately if it gets sweaty.
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6. Wear Loose Clothing
Tight clothes can rub against your tattoo, cause irritation, and pull off scabs. Stick to loose, breathable fabrics while your tattoo heals.
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7. Don’t Pick or Scratch
Scabbing and itching are normal parts of healing. Don’t pick or scratch! This can pull out ink and cause scarring. Instead, apply moisturizer to soothe any itching.
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8. Skip Swimming
Avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, or natural bodies of water for at least 2–3 weeks. These can introduce bacteria or chemicals that could lead to infection.
Showering is fine—just avoid soaking the tattoo.