look after it
Tattoo Aftercare Guide
How you care for your tattoo in the days and weeks after your appointment
will significantly affect how it heals and how it looks long term.
Healing Timeline
Day 1 — Immediately after
Leaving the studio
Your tattoo will be covered with a protective wrap or film when you leave. Keep this on for the time advised by your artist — typically 2–4 hours for standard wrap, or up to 3–5 days for second skin film.
Days 1–3 — Initial healing
Keeping it clean
Once the wrap is removed, gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and unscented soap. Pat dry with a clean paper towel — never rub. Apply a thin layer of unscented moisturiser 2–3 times a day.
- Use lukewarm water only — not hot
- Unscented, gentle soap (e.g. Simple, Dove sensitive)
- Thin layer of unscented moisturiser — Bepanthen or CeraVe work well
- Pat dry, never rub
Days 3–14 — Peeling phase
Don't pick or scratch
Your tattoo will begin to peel, similar to sunburn. This is completely normal. The skin may feel itchy — this is a sign it's healing. Do not pick, scratch, or peel the skin as this can pull out ink and affect the final result.
- Continue moisturising 2–3 times daily
- Let peeling skin fall off naturally
- If itchy, gently tap the area — never scratch
Weeks 2–4 — Surface healing
Looking milky or dull
The surface will appear healed but the deeper layers of skin are still settling. Your tattoo may look milky or slightly faded — this is normal and will clear up as the skin fully heals.
Months 1–3 — Full healing
Fully healed
Your tattoo should be fully healed within 2–3 months. Once fully healed, apply SPF 50 sunscreen whenever the tattoo is exposed to the sun — this is the single most important thing you can do to maintain it long term.
Quick Reference
✓ Do
- Keep it clean and moisturised
- Wear loose, breathable clothing over it
- Pat dry after washing
- Apply SPF once fully healed
- Stay hydrated
- Contact us if concerned
✕ Don't
- Pick, scratch, or peel
- Submerge in water (baths, pools, sea)
- Expose to direct sunlight
- Apply scented products
- Wear tight clothing over it
- Exercise heavily for 48 hours
Signs of Infection
Some redness, swelling, and tenderness in the first few days is completely normal. However, please seek medical advice if you notice any of the following:
If you're concerned, contact your GP or call 111. You're also welcome to send us a photo and we'll advise as best we can.
Touch Ups
Fine line tattoos may require a touch up once fully healed — this is completely normal and nothing to worry about. We offer one complimentary touch up within 12 weeks of your appointment, provided aftercare instructions have been followed.
Please wait until your tattoo is fully healed (at least 6–8 weeks) before booking a touch up. Get in touch and we'll arrange a time that suits you.
Long Term Care
Once healed, the best thing you can do for your fine line tattoo is keep it out of the sun and moisturised. Sun exposure is the number one cause of tattoo fading — apply SPF 50 whenever it's exposed, even on cloudy days.
Keep the skin hydrated with a good unscented moisturiser and your tattoo will stay looking beautiful for years to come.
We're always here to help
If you have any questions or concerns about your healing tattoo, please don't hesitate to reach out. We'd rather you get in touch than worry alone.
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