Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

A Step-by-Step Guide to Help Your Tattoo Heal Perfectly

Getting a tattoo is only the first step, the real magic happens during the healing process. Proper aftercare ensures your tattoo stays clean, heals smoothly, and looks just as good years from now as it does today. Here are the aftercare instructions I recommend for all of my clients.

Day of the Tattoo

• Keep your tattoo covered for 2–3 hours after your session.
  This protects it from bacteria and irritation.

• When you remove the plastic, do not re-wrap your tattoo again (the only exception is explained below for the first night).

• Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your tattoo.

• Gently wash the tattoo using only warm water, no soap for the first rinse. Be extra gentle.

• Pat the tattoo dry with clean paper towels. Do not rub, just tap softly.

• Let it breathe for about 10 minutes. Keep it uncovered and avoid clothing contact.

• Apply a very thin layer of cream, the layer should be transparent, not white or thick.

From the Next Day Onwards

• Repeat the cleaning and moisturizing steps twice a day (morning and night) for at least two weeks.

• After the first 24–48 hours, you may begin washing with a mild, fragrance-free soap when cleaning your tattoo.

Important Notes

• You may cover the tattoo with plastic on the first night only if you feel it’s necessary. Just make sure the tattoo is completely clean and dry before doing so.

• The cream is the most important part of the healing process. Keep it light, clean, and consistent. Always apply a thin, transparent layer. Too much cream can suffocate the skin.

• Your tattoo should always stay clean and dry.

• Avoid long baths, swimming, and contact sports for two weeks.

• Be cautious with pets, keep them away from your healing tattoo.

• Avoid tight or scratchy clothing that may rub against the tattoo.

• The sun is your tattoo’s worst enemy. Once healed, always protect your tattoo with sunscreen and avoid long periods of direct sunlight, especially in summer.

• You may return to light training or workouts once the tattoo no longer feels sensitive. Always be careful to avoid scratching, rubbing, or direct friction on the healing area.

• It’s normal for your tattoo to peel or itch slightly while healing. Do not pick or scratch it, just keep moisturizing. The tattoo may also look a little dull before the skin fully regenerates, but the color and detail will return once healed.

Recommended Creams

For the best results, I recommend:

• Webber Vitamin E Cream (blue packaging)

• Hustle Butter Deluxe

If you can’t find these, look for creams that contain vitamin E, since it helps the skin heal and stay hydrated. Some great options you can pick up at almost any pharmacy are:

• Aquaphor Healing Ointment (fragrance-free and non-irritating, works well for sensitive skin)

• Eucerin Advanced Repair Cream with Vitamin E (dermatologist-recommended, fragrance-free, supports skin barrier repair)

• Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula with Vitamin E – fragrance-free version (light, soothing, and supports healing)

The key is to use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer with healing ingredients. Avoid anything with perfumes, alcohol, or harsh chemicals.

Final Note & Disclaimer

These aftercare instructions are based on my experience as a tattoo artist and are intended for clients who get tattooed by me. Healing may vary depending on your skin type, lifestyle, and tattoo placement. If you experience unusual reactions, consult a healthcare professional.

And of course, if you ever have questions, please reach out to me directly. It’s always better to ask me than to rely on Google.

If you love your tattoo, feel free to share it on Instagram and tag me @blase.tattoos — it means a lot and helps me continue doing what I love.