AFTERCARE GUIDE
HEALING INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE BEST LONG-TERM RESULT
Your tattoo is healing artwork
A fresh tattoo is a controlled injury to the skin and requires proper care to heal beautifully. Following these instructions will help preserve details, maintain color saturation, and ensure the best possible result.
First Hours
If your tattoo is covered with a standard bandage, keep it on for several hours or until the end of the day.
Second skin
If your artist applied a protective film (second skin), leave it in place for 48-72hours. It is waterproof, so you can take showers normally. Your body is going to push plasma, blood, ink. Don’t worry, all that liquid is going to help it heal faster!
If you notice any amount of fluid leaking out of the dressing before your 3 day waiting period, then please remove it as soon as possible, if liquid can get out it means bacteria can get in. This then creates a infection risk if not removed.
If the film begins to peel off or comes loose earlier, it can be removed gently.
Cleaning
Wash your hands before touching your tattoo.
Rinse the tattoo with lukewarm water and gently cleanse it using a mild antibacterial soap and your fingertips.
Pat the area dry with a clean paper towel. Avoid rubbing the skin.
Moisturizing
Apply a very thin layer of fragrance-free lotion once or twice a day.
We recommend products such as Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion or Aquaphore Lotion but any unscented moisturizer suitable for sensitive skin will work.
Remember: more lotion does not mean better healing. The skin should feel hydrated, not greasy.
During Healing
Please do:
• Keep your tattoo clean
• Take regular showers, avoiding prolonged exposure to water
• Wear clean, loose-fitting clothing over the tattooed area
• Allow any peeling or flaking to happen naturally
Please avoid:
• Scratching, rubbing, or picking at peeling skin
• Swimming pools, hot tubs, oceans, lakes, and rivers
• Direct sun exposure and tanning
• Heavy layers of ointment or scented skincare
• You should avoid gym immediately after getting a tattoo because it’s an open wound, risking infection from bacteria and sweat; wait at least 48-72 hours for initial healing.
Healing Time
Most tattoos heal within 2–4 weeks, depending on placement, skin type, and individual healing.
A good indication that your tattoo has fully healed is when the skin texture returns to normal and no longer appears shiny.
Long-Term Care
Once healed, apply sunscreen whenever your tattoo is exposed to sunlight. Daily sun protection is the best way to preserve fine details and keep your tattoo looking crisp for years to come.
If you have any questions during the healing process, feel free to contact Tattoo Point. We are always happy to help.