Tattoo Aftercare

How to Heal Your Tattoo Properly

Taking care of your new tattoo is just as important as getting it done. I want your piece to heal beautifully and last a lifetime. Proper aftercare helps your tattoo settle well, prevents infection, and keeps the detail and contrast sharp — especially for black and grey realism tattoos.

Please follow these instructions carefully, and if you’re ever unsure, reach out to me directly.

What to Do

  • Keep the SecondSkin on for 3–4 days.

  • Remove in the shower. Let warm water run over it and peel slowly, close to the skin (like a command strip). Don’t pull outward.

  • Wash gently. Use lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Avoid direct water pressure.

  • Pat dry only. Use a clean paper towel — never rub, and avoid cloth towels since they can carry bacteria. Let it air dry for about 10 minutes.

  • Moisturise lightly. Apply a very thin layer of unscented lotion. Don’t overdo it — less is more.

  • Protect long-term. Once healed, always apply sunscreen when your tattoo is exposed to the sun.

What Not to Do

  • Don’t let anyone touch your fresh tattoo.

  • Don’t use Vaseline, Neosporin, or ointments I haven’t recommended.

  • Don’t put alcohol, peroxide, or cortisone on your tattoo.

  • Don’t pick, peel, or scratch it (even if it itches).

  • Don’t soak it — avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, baths, and the beach.

  • Don’t use tanning beds or direct sun while healing.

What to Expect

  • First 12 hours: Some ink, plasma, or light bleeding under the bandage is normal.

  • When removing SecondSkin: Wash with fragrance-free soap, rinse gently, and apply a thin layer of lotion.

  • After a few days: Light peeling or small scabs are normal.

  • Itchiness: Don’t scratch — pat it gently. If it’s peeling, apply a little lotion. If it scabs, leave it alone.

Recommended Products

I personally recommend Tattoo Goo® products because they’re gentle, pH-balanced, and made specifically for tattoos.

  • Tattoo Goo® Antimicrobial Soap – Use 2–3 times daily with clean hands. Rinse with warm water and pat dry.

  • Tattoo Goo® Tattoo Balm – Provides a protective barrier to support healing. Apply 2–3 times daily on healing or healed ink.

  • Tattoo Goo® Tattoo Lotion – A light lotion that prevents scabbing and helps tattoos heal smoothly. Apply 2–3 times per day during healing and after, to maintain detail and vibrancy.

Final Notes

Your tattoo will only heal as well as you care for it. My job is to create the tattoo — your job is to protect it while it heals. Keep it simple: wash, dry, moisturise, and protect.

If you ever have questions during healing, don’t hesitate to Contact Me.