To Do

  • Keep the second skin on your tattoo for around 2-4 days. If there is build-up of liquid under the film, then remove it after 24 hours. Please take it off under clean, lukewarm running water and gently wash the area.

  • Pat dry with clean paper towel and let the tattoo get some air for 30 minutes. Sometimes a little sticky residue from the plastic film will remain on your skin – this will come off naturally (just don’t pick it!).

  • Use the moisturiser you have been given during your appointment to nourish the skin. Apply a small amount of the aftercare product to the tattooed skin. There is no need to use a lot as you still want the skin to breathe – a thin layer is enough. This will keep your tattoo clean whilst allowing the skin to breathe and heal.

  • From then on, we recommend applying the aftercare product 2-3 times a day (depending on the tattoo size): after you shower in the morning and before going to bed at night in particular. Always wash your hands before application. Again, this only needs to be a thin layer of cream each time. You don’t need to wash your tattoo more than once a day.

  • Continue this process for 4 weeks.

  • You may find your tattoo will form a scab after a few days and the skin will begin flaking off (a bit like sunburn). This is totally normal.

Don’t Do

  • Do not drink alcohol before or after being tattooed. If your body is focusing on curing a hangover it’s not concentrating on healing your tattoo, and alcohol in your system will make you bleed more and potentially stop the tattoo from healing properly.

  • Do not pick the scab! This risks removing ink from the skin and damaging your tattoo.

  • Avoid any strenuous exercise for 4-7 days after your tattoo (this can lead to infection or could damage the skin).

  • Avoid any activity where the tattoo is submerged in water (except showering) for 3 weeks after your tattoo. This includes, but is not limited to: baths, saunas, float tanks, surfing or spas (these will almost certainly lead to infection and will very likely damage your tattoo).

  • Do not have your tattoo in direct sunlight for 4 weeks – of course this is sometimes unavoidable, but no sunbathing with the tattoo uncovered and definitely no sun beds.

  • Avoid wearing tight clothing or jewellery over the tattooed skin for at least 2 weeks (this can irritate the skin and even lead to infection).