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Congratulations on your new tattoo! Now that the hard part is over, it’s time to focus on healing. Proper aftercare is essential to prevent infection, preserve ink vibrancy, and ensure your tattoo heals beautifully. Poor aftercare can lead to fading, infections, or scarring. This guide will walk you through each stage of the healing process, what to expect, and the best ways to care for your new tattoo. Visit the FAQ at the end for further guidance on caring for your ink.
The first 24 hours are crucial for preventing infection and ensuring proper healing. When your tattoo is finished, your artist will apply a protective film over the area. This keeps bacteria out and protects the fresh ink from irritation.
🚫 Do not re-wrap your tattoo unless advised by your artist. Let your tattoo breathe for proper healing.
After the first day, your tattoo will begin its natural healing process. Here’s what to expect:
🚫 No picking at scabs – this can pull out ink and cause uneven healing.
🚫 Do not over-moisturise – too much cream can clog pores and cause irritation. Apply a thin layer only.
By the second week, the peeling phase should be almost finished, but the tattoo may still feel dry and itchy. This is normal! Your skin is regenerating and the deeper layers are still healing.
🚫 No scratching, rubbing or tight clothing over the area – this can cause irritation.
🚫 Do not soak your tattoo – continue avoiding swimming pools, hot tubs and long baths.
Once your tattoo is fully healed (usually by Week 4–6), you’ll want to keep it looking fresh for years to come. Here’s how:
Healing a tattoo is simple when you follow the right steps. The most important things to remember are:
By taking proper care of your tattoo, you’ll enjoy bold, vibrant ink for years to come. If you have any aftercare questions, the team at Old Sarum Tattoo is always happy to help.
Most tattoos take about 2–4 weeks to heal on the surface, but full healing (including deeper layers of skin) can take 4–6 weeks. Following proper aftercare will help speed up recovery.
Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free moisturiser 2–3 times a day. Avoid over-moisturising, as too much lotion can clog pores and slow healing.
Yes! Peeling and itching usually start around Day 3–4 and last for a week or so. This is a normal part of the healing process. Do not scratch—instead, tap or lightly slap the area to relieve itching.
Yes, but avoid long, hot showers. Keep your tattoo out of direct water flow, wash gently with lukewarm water and mild soap and pat dry with a clean paper towel.
Avoid swimming, hot tubs and baths for at least 2–3 weeks. Soaking your tattoo in water too soon can cause ink loss and increase the risk of infection.
Direct sun exposure can fade and damage a new tattoo. Avoid sunlight for at least 4 weeks, and after healing, always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen to protect your tattoo.
Light scabbing is normal, but do not pick at scabs - this can pull ink out and cause uneven healing. If your tattoo looks patchy after healing, contact your artist about a touch-up session.
It’s best to avoid intense exercise for 3–5 days to prevent sweating and friction, which can irritate your tattoo. If you must work out, wear loose clothing and clean your tattoo immediately afterward.
Signs of infection include:
🚨 Excessive redness or swelling that worsens after a few days.
🚨 A burning sensation or pus-like discharge.
🚨 Severe pain or a fever.
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your artist or seek medical advice immediately.
Most tattoos heal well, but some areas may fade or heal unevenly. If you notice patchiness or missing ink after healing, contact your artist to discuss a free or low-cost touch-up (policies vary by studio).
Get in contact if you still have any questions, you can call, email, come in to the studio or contact us on social media, what ever is most comfortable for you.
01722 410 767
Old Sarum Tattoo Studio, 87 Crane Street, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 2PU
