How to look after your new tattoo

The first few hours

When we finish, we cover the tattoo with a protective film. If it is breathable film (second-skin type), you can keep it on for 3 to 5 days unless we tell you otherwise. If it is regular film, take it off after 2 or 3 hours.

• Wash your hands before touching the tattoo.
• Peel the film off gently, under warm water if it sticks.
• Wash the area with mild, fragrance-free soap and pat it dry with kitchen paper.

The first two weeks

• Wash the tattoo two or three times a day with mild soap and warm water.
• Apply a very thin layer of the cream we recommend. The skin needs to breathe: if it shines, there is too much.
• Do not scratch or pick at scabs or peeling skin.
• Wear loose clothing that does not rub the area.
• Sleep on a clean sheet and avoid lying on the tattoo for the first few days.

Sun, beach, pool and exercise

• No direct sun until the skin has healed (about three to four weeks).
• No sea, pool, sauna or baths for at least two weeks. Showers are fine.
• If you exercise, wait two or three days and avoid friction and heavy sweating on the area.

What is normal

For the first few days it is normal for the area to be red, slightly swollen and warm, and to release a little ink or plasma. Between day five and ten the skin peels, like after sunburn, and the tattoo may look dull. After three or four weeks it reaches its final look.

When to get advice

If from day three the redness increases instead of going down, or there is pus, a bad smell, severe pain or fever, see your doctor and let us know. If in doubt, message us with a photo.

In the long term

Sun is what ages a tattoo most. Once healed, use SPF 50 sunscreen on the area whenever you are exposed. Keeping the skin moisturised also helps colour and lines last.

This guide is for general guidance and does not replace medical advice. Message us with any questions.