How Do You Take Care of a Tattoo
Your essential guide to tattoo aftercare.
Taking care of a tattoo is essential to ensure it heals properly and retains its vibrancy for years to come. At OSCO, we believe that proper aftercare is just as important as the tattooing process itself. Whether it’s your first tattoo or your latest addition, here’s everything you need to know about keeping your ink looking its best.
The First 24–48 Hours
After your tattoo session, your artist will apply a protective bandage to shield the area from bacteria and irritation. Leave this bandage on for the recommended time, typically between 2–24 hours. Once removed, gently wash your tattoo with lukewarm water and unscented, antibacterial soap to remove any plasma, blood, or ink residue.
Daily Care During Healing
Keep It Clean: Wash your tattoo twice a day with lukewarm water and mild soap. Avoid scrubbing—gently pat the area dry with a clean paper towel.
Moisturise: Apply a thin layer of tattoo-safe lotion to keep your skin hydrated. Avoid heavy creams or products with fragrances that could irritate the area.
Avoid Soaking: Showers are fine, but avoid submerging your tattoo in baths, pools, or hot tubs until it’s fully healed. Prolonged exposure to water can damage the tattoo and increase the risk of infection.
Protect Your Tattoo
Avoid Sun Exposure: Direct sunlight can fade your tattoo and irritate healing skin. Once healed, use a high-SPF sunscreen to protect your tattoo’s vibrancy.
Don’t Pick or Scratch: As your tattoo heals, it will form scabs and may start to peel. This is normal, but resist the urge to pick or scratch as it can damage the design and prolong healing.
Signs of Proper Healing
During the first few weeks, you may notice redness, scabbing, and peeling. These are all normal stages of healing. By weeks 3–4, the surface of your tattoo should appear healed, although deeper layers of skin may still be recovering.
When to Seek Help
If you notice excessive redness, swelling, pus, or unusual pain, it could be a sign of infection. Contact your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional for advice.
Why Aftercare Matters
Proper aftercare not only ensures your tattoo heals correctly but also preserves the quality of your ink. Neglecting aftercare can lead to fading, scarring, or even infection, so it’s worth taking the time to follow these steps.
Taking care of a tattoo doesn’t have to be complicated, it just requires consistency and attention. By following these aftercare tips, you’ll set your tattoo up for a smooth healing process and a lifetime of looking its best.