Aftercare

Tattoo aftercare is essential to protect your new ink and help it heal beautifully. At Inktales Tattoo Studio, we guide every client through proven aftercare steps that prevent infection, reduce irritation, and keep tattoos vibrant for years. Following this advice ensures your tattoo stays a work of art you’ll love for life.

First Hours – Removing the Dressing

Your tattoo will be covered after completion. Leave the dressing on for 1 - 5 hours, depending on your artist’s instructions.
When it’s time to remove it:

1. Firstly, wash your hands thoroughly.

2. Next, gently peel off the dressing.

3. Afterwards, wash the tattoo with warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap.

4. Finally, pat it dry with a clean paper towel.

Cleaning & Moisturising

For the first 7-14 days:

• Wash your tattoo two or three times daily with lukewarm water and mild soap.

• Gently pat dry - never rub.

• Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free healing ointment or lotion recommended by your artist.

However, avoid petroleum jelly, as it can block airflow, impact the colour of the tattoo and slow healing. In addition, if you work in an environment with dust, dirt, or grease, keep your tattoo loosely covered for extra protection.

Tattoo Aftercare Healing Timeline – What to Expect

Generally, the healing process happens in stages:

• Days 1-3: Redness, tenderness, and light swelling are normal.

• Days 4-14: Flaking and scabbing may appear - therefore, do not pick or scratch.

• Weeks 3-4: Skin returns to normal but still needs moisturising.

For more details on healing stages, see Healthline’s tattoo aftercare guide.

Activities to Avoid During Tattoo Aftercare

To protect your tattoo while it heals:

• First, avoid swimming, hot tubs, or soaking in baths.

• Next, stay away from direct sun exposure and tanning beds.

• Also, skip gym workouts or heavy sweating until healed.

• Furthermore, avoid tight clothing over the tattoo.

• Finally, never pick scabs or scratch the skin.

Long-Term Tattoo Aftercare & Protection

Even after your tattoo has healed, UV rays can fade it over time. Therefore, always apply high-SPF sunscreen before going outdoors. Additionally, keep your skin moisturised throughout the year.

When to Seek Help

If you notice excessive redness, swelling, pus, or a fever, contact your GP immediately. Infections are rare when following proper aftercare, but it’s important to act quickly if problems occur.

At Inktales Tattoo Studio, we care about your safety and satisfaction. Follow these aftercare steps, and you’ll enjoy a tattoo that looks as good in years to come as it did on day one.

Contact us immediately if you have any problems or queries, or if you notice signs of adverse reactions or infection. We will refer you to a GP if necessary.