How to take care of a fresh tattoo?

How to take care of a fresh tattoo?

In this article, you will learn:– why a fresh tattoo requires special care,

  • why a fresh tattoo requires special care,
  • what proper step-by-step aftercare looks like – from the moment you leave the studio to full healing,
  • what to avoid to ensure proper healing: water, sun, harsh cosmetics, friction, etc.,
  • how to properly moisturize your tattoo and maintain its color intensity for years,
  • answers to the most frequently asked questions (FAQ).

Why a fresh tattoo is more than just body art

A tattoo right after the session is essentially a fresh wound — your skin has been pierced thousands of times by needles, the ink has settled into it, and your body responds with a natural inflammatory and healing process.

That means proper care from the very first hours determines how your tattoo will heal — whether the colors stay vibrant, the lines remain sharp, and the skin regenerates properly.
Neglecting aftercare can lead to fading, infection, or even scarring.

That’s exactly why we’ve created this guide — and developed skincare products — to support your tattoo during its most crucial healing phase.

GUIDE – HOW TO TAKE CARE OF A FRESH TATTOO?

Step-by-step care: what to do and when

1. Right after the session – bandage and protection

After finishing the tattoo, your artist will cover it with a bandage or special film (like second skin). This protects the fresh wound from bacteria and external contaminants.
Keep the film/bandage on for the time recommended by your tattoo artist (usually a few hours). Don’t remove it forcefully.

2. First wash – be gentle

Once the bandage is removed, wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, gentle soap — ideally antibacterial and fragrance-free.
Avoid soaps with strong detergents.
Don’t use sponges — wash it with clean hands only.
Gently pat dry with a disposable paper towel — never rub, just pat softly.
After drying, let the skin breathe for 10–15 minutes before applying any skincare product.

3. Moisturizing and care – the key to beautiful ink

Your tattoo needs regular hydration — apply a thin layer of cream, butter, or oil 2–4 times a day during the healing process.
Use a small amount of product — the skin should be able to breathe. A thick layer can slow down regeneration.
Choose skincare made specifically for tattoos — ideally natural, vegan, and free from strong fragrances, parabens, or alcohol.

4. Avoid anything that can hinder the healing process

No long baths, jacuzzis, pools, lakes, or oceans — for at least 2–3 weeks.
Forget about saunas, tanning beds, and intense physical activity. Exercise and sweat can smear the ink and slow down healing.
Avoid sunlight — UV rays can burn the pigment. Until your tattoo is fully healed, protect it with clothing. Even after healing, always use sunscreen (SPF).
Don’t scratch, pick, or peel scabs or flaking skin — this is a natural stage of healing. Removing them too early can damage the pigment or leave scars.

5. Patience and consistency — your best allies

Full skin healing usually takes 4–6 weeks, though the initial phase (fading, peeling) typically lasts 7–10 days.

The most important thing is consistency — regular cleaning, gentleness, and daily care are the keys to lasting color and sharp lines.

Why choose tattoo-specific skincare?

Your skin after getting tattooed is highly sensitive — and not every regular hand cream or drugstore lotion will be safe. Your brand knows this well. Tattoo-dedicated skincare products:

  • are gentle, fragrance-free, and contain no alcohol or artificial dyes — they don’t irritate sensitive skin,
  • are rich in nourishing and regenerative ingredients (like oils, butters, aloe, soothing agents) — which speed up healing and protect the ink,
  • provide proper hydration — fresh skin is dry and irritated, and regular moisturization helps keep it elastic and vibrant.

That’s why products like yours — butters, oils, soaps, SPF creams — are an investment in how your tattoo looks for years to come.

Summary

Taking care of a fresh tattoo isn’t just a trend — it’s your responsibility to your body and to the art you wear. If you treat it seriously, gently, and consistently:

  • your tattoo will heal beautifully,
  • the colors will stay vibrant,
  • the lines will remain sharp and clear,
  • and your skin will stay healthy and soft.

Remember: a fresh tattoo is a wound — and it’s up to you how well that wound heals. Use clean hands, gentle skincare, avoid water, sun, and friction, and stay on top of hydration.

If you want your tattoos to look like new for years — invest in proper aftercare.

👉 Check out our FRESH TATTOO AFTERCARE KIT 😍

FAQ – Most common questions about fresh tattoo aftercare

How often should I wash my tattoo?
Gently wash it 1–2 times a day during the first few days, then as needed — make sure to use lukewarm water and mild soap.

How often should I apply cream / butter / oil?
Ideally 2–4 times a day in a thin layer — your skin should be lightly moisturized, not greasy.

How long should I avoid baths, pools, saunas, and sun exposure?
Avoid soaking in bathtubs, pools, the sea, lakes, or jacuzzis for at least 2–3 weeks. Saunas, tanning beds, and strong sun exposure should also be avoided.

Can I work out or train?
It’s best to skip intense physical activity for at least 1–2 weeks — sweat, friction, and tight clothing can interfere with healing.

Why are tattoo-specific skincare products better than regular creams?
Standard lotions often contain fragrances, alcohol, and silicones — these can irritate the skin and slow down healing.
Tattoo-dedicated products are gentle, support the skin barrier, and help lock in pigment.

💛 Want more practical tips? Check out our newly updated guide online: 👉  How to take care of a fresh tattoo?

Back to blog