How to Care for a New Tattoo: The Ultimate Guide

At Wild Heart, we see every tattoo as a partnership. You trust us with your vision and your skin, and our artists pour their skill and creativity into creating a piece you’ll love forever. When you walk out our door, that partnership enters a new phase. The artist has completed their part of the masterpiece, and now the final, crucial stage is in your hands. The aftercare you provide in the coming weeks is what brings the tattoo to its full potential. This guide is our way of continuing that partnership, giving you all the information you need on how to care for a new tattoo. We’ll cover the daily routines, the products to use, and what to avoid, ensuring your art heals just as beautifully as it was designed.

Key Takeaways

Master the Basics of Healing: Your most important job is to keep your new tattoo clean and lightly moisturized. Gently wash the area two to three times a day with your hands and a fragrance-free soap, then apply a very thin layer of recommended lotion to support the healing process.
Patience Prevents Problems: The healing phase requires you to avoid certain things. For a few weeks, stay out of pools and direct sun, and resist the powerful urge to pick or scratch any scabs or flakes, as this can damage the final result.
Know the Difference Between Normal and Not: Itchiness and peeling are good signs your tattoo is healing correctly. However, if you see spreading redness, pus, or develop a fever, it’s a red flag. Don’t hesitate to contact your artist with questions or see a doctor if you suspect an infection.

The First 24 Hours: Your Immediate Aftercare Plan

Okay, you did it! You’ve got a beautiful new piece of art on your skin, and you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and maybe a little bit of “what now?”. The next 24 hours are absolutely crucial for making sure your tattoo heals perfectly and looks amazing for years to come. Think of this initial period as setting the foundation for a smooth healing process. It’s all about protecting your fresh ink from bacteria and giving your skin the best possible start.

Don’t worry, it’s not complicated, and we’re here to walk you through it. We’ll cover exactly what to do from the moment you leave the shop, including how long to keep your bandage on and the right way to remove it. We’ll also give you a step-by-step guide for that important first wash, so you can feel confident you’re doing it right. Finally, we’ll go over what you can expect to see and feel right away—like a little weeping or flaking—so you know what’s normal and what’s not. Each of our artists at Wild Heart will give you specific instructions tailored to your tattoo, but this guide will give you a solid plan to follow. Let’s get your healing journey started on the right foot.

Leaving the Shop

Your artist has just finished their masterpiece, and the last step before you head out is the bandage. They’ll cover your new tattoo with either a classic plastic wrap or a specialized medical-grade film like Saniderm. This isn’t just for show—it’s your tattoo’s first line of defense against germs and friction. It’s so important to leave this bandage on for the exact amount of time your artist recommends. This initial protection is key to preventing infection and helps kickstart the healing process properly. Resist the urge to peek! Trust the process and your artist’s instructions.

When and How to Remove Your Bandage

The time has come to unwrap your new art. Depending on the type of bandage used, your artist will tell you to remove it anywhere from a few hours to a few days later. Before you even think about touching the bandage, head to the sink and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. This is the single most important step to prevent introducing bacteria to your fresh tattoo, which is essentially an open wound. Once your hands are clean, you can gently remove the bandage. Following this simple rule is one of the best ways to take care of your tattoo from the very beginning.

Your First Wash: A Step-by-Step Guide

With the bandage off, it’s time for the first wash. It might feel a little intimidating, but it’s simple. Using only your clean hands, gently wash the tattoo with a fragrance-free, antibacterial soap and lukewarm water. Move your fingers in a soft, circular motion to remove any plasma or excess ink. Don’t use a washcloth, loofah, or sponge, as they can be too abrasive and harbor bacteria. Once it’s clean, don’t rub it with a towel. Instead, gently pat the area dry with a clean paper towel and let it air dry for a few minutes before applying any ointment. That’s it—you’ve got this!

What to Expect Right Away

In the first day or two, don’t be alarmed if your tattoo looks a little… messy. It’s completely normal for it to “weep” a bit. This is just a mix of clear plasma, blood, and excess ink leaving your skin. You might also see some redness and swelling, similar to a sunburn. Your skin is working hard to heal itself! Soon, you’ll notice some peeling and flaking, much like a healing sunburn. These are all positive signs that your body is doing exactly what it’s supposed to do. If you have any questions about what’s normal, our info page has more details, or you can always give us a call.

Building Your Daily Aftercare Routine

Once you’ve made it through the first 24 hours, it’s time to settle into a daily rhythm. Consistency is your best friend for the next few weeks. Creating a simple morning and evening routine will ensure your new tattoo gets the care it needs to heal beautifully without feeling like a chore. Think of it as a small, temporary ritual to protect your investment. Your artist has done their part, and now it’s your turn to see the piece through to perfection. Following these steps will help you keep the area clean, properly moisturized, and on the right track for a smooth healing process.

Your Morning Checklist

Start your day by giving your tattoo some gentle attention. Before you do anything else, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. This is the most important step to prevent introducing bacteria to the area. Once your hands are clean, you can gently wash your tattoo. After washing, pat the area completely dry with a clean paper towel—your regular bath towel can hold onto bacteria, so it’s best to avoid it for now. Finish by applying a very thin layer of the lotion or ointment your artist recommended. This simple routine helps protect your tattoo from irritation and keeps the skin hydrated for the day ahead.

Your Evening Wind-Down

Just like your morning check-in, your evening routine is all about cleaning and protecting your tattoo. It’s a chance to wash away any sweat, dirt, or irritants that have accumulated throughout the day. Follow the same simple process: wash your hands, gently cleanse the tattoo with lukewarm water and antibacterial soap, and pat it dry with a fresh paper towel. Apply another thin layer of your aftercare lotion before bed. This helps keep the skin hydrated overnight and supports the healing process while you sleep. If you ever have questions about your specific tattoo, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

The Right Way to Clean Your Tattoo

Cleaning your new tattoo isn’t complicated, but the technique matters. Always use your hands, as washcloths, loofahs, or sponges are far too abrasive for healing skin and can harbor bacteria that lead to infection. Lather a gentle, fragrance-free antibacterial soap (like Dial Gold or Dr. Bronner’s) in your hands and gently wash the tattoo using slow, circular motions. Use lukewarm water—hot water can open your pores and cause irritation or ink loss. Be sure to rinse away all the soap residue so it doesn’t dry out your skin, then pat the area dry with a clean paper towel. The goal is to be thorough but gentle.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Moisturizing

Proper moisturizing is key, but it’s easy to overdo it. The golden rule is to apply a very thin layer of lotion, just enough to make the tattoo shine slightly. A thick layer can clog your pores and trap moisture, which can interfere with healing. You should moisturize two to three times a day, or whenever the tattoo feels dry and tight. Stick to fragrance-free products to avoid irritation. It’s crucial to avoid petroleum-based products like Vaseline, which can suffocate the tattoo. According to Healthline’s aftercare guide, you should also steer clear of ointments like Neosporin unless specifically instructed by a doctor, as some people can have allergic reactions.

Choosing the Best Aftercare Products

Walking through the pharmacy aisle can feel overwhelming, but choosing the right aftercare products doesn’t have to be complicated. When it comes to a healing tattoo, simple is always better. Your goal is to find gentle, basic products that will help your skin heal without causing irritation. Heavy fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals are the enemy of new ink. Your artist at Wild Heart is your best guide and will give you their specific recommendations, but understanding the fundamentals will help you care for your tattoo with confidence. Think of this as building your tattoo’s first aid kit—a few key items are all you need to keep your new art clean, moisturized, and on the path to a beautiful heal.

What Soaps to Use

When washing your tattoo, reach for a mild, fragrance-free soap. Your skin is an open wound at this stage, so you want to avoid anything with perfumes or harsh detergents that could cause a reaction. Many artists recommend a simple antibacterial soap, like Dial Gold, to keep germs at bay. Other fantastic options include gentle, unscented formulas like a Dove Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar or Dr. Bronner’s Baby Unscented Pure-Castile Soap. The key is to find a gentle cleanser that will clean the area effectively without stripping its natural moisture or irritating the sensitive skin.

What Lotions and Ointments to Use

Moisturizing is crucial, but the type of product and how you apply it matters. For the first few days, your artist will likely recommend a thin layer of an ointment like Aquaphor or Bacitracin. Apply just enough to make the tattoo shine, and gently dab off any excess—too much can suffocate the skin. After the initial healing phase (usually about a week), you can switch to a gentle, fragrance-free lotion. Products like Lubriderm or Cetaphil are great choices. Continue to moisturize your tattoo a few times a day to keep it from drying out and to soothe any itchiness.

Products You Should Absolutely Avoid

What you don’t put on your tattoo is just as important as what you do. First and foremost, stay away from any products with added fragrance, as these are a leading cause of irritation and allergic reactions on healing skin. You should also avoid thick, petroleum-based products like original Vaseline. While it might seem like a good barrier, 100% petroleum jelly can trap moisture and bacteria, clogging your pores and potentially causing ink to fade. It’s best to stick with the lighter ointments and lotions recommended by tattoo professionals.

Key Ingredients to Look For (and Steer Clear Of)

Learning to read an ingredient label can save your tattoo a lot of grief. Look for lotions that are explicitly labeled “fragrance-free,” “alcohol-free,” and free of unnecessary dyes. These are the hallmarks of a product that won’t irritate your new ink. On the flip side, there are a few ingredients you should never let near your tattoo. Harsh chemicals like hydrogen peroxide and rubbing alcohol are far too abrasive for healing skin and will cause damage and delay the healing process. When in doubt, stick to products with short, simple ingredient lists designed for sensitive skin.

What to Expect as Your Tattoo Heals

Getting a new tattoo is just the first step; the healing process is where you ensure your new art looks its best for years to come. Your body is doing the hard work of repairing your skin, and your job is to support that process. Every person and every tattoo heals a little differently, but there’s a general timeline you can expect. Knowing what’s normal—and what’s not—will give you peace of mind as you watch your tattoo settle in. Remember, patience is key. Follow your aftercare instructions, and trust the process.

Week 1: The Scabbing Phase

The first few days are the most intense phase of healing. It’s completely normal for your new tattoo to be red, a bit swollen, and tender. You might also notice some clear fluid (plasma) and a little excess ink weeping from the area—this is just your body’s natural response to the wound. As the week progresses, your tattoo will start to form light scabs. This is a critical stage. Whatever you do, don’t pick or pull at them. Let the scabs flake off on their own. Trying to remove them can pull out the ink, leading to patchiness and potential scarring. Just keep gently washing and moisturizing, and let your body handle the rest.

Weeks 2-3: The Peeling Phase

Welcome to the itchy phase! As your tattoo continues to heal, the scabs will start to flake away, and the skin underneath will peel, much like a sunburn. This is a great sign that new skin is regenerating. The urge to scratch can be strong, but you have to resist it. Scratching can damage the delicate new skin and affect the final look of your tattoo. Instead of scratching, apply a thin layer of your approved fragrance-free lotion. Keeping the area moisturized will help soothe the itchiness and keep the healing process on track. Continue to wash it gently once or twice a day and moisturize whenever it feels dry or tight.

Week 4 & Beyond: Nearing the Finish Line

By the end of the first month, your tattoo will likely look fully healed on the surface. The peeling should be done, and the colors will start to look settled and vibrant. However, it’s important to know that the deeper layers of your skin are still busy healing, a process that can take a few months. This is why long-term care is so important. To keep your tattoo looking sharp, make sunscreen your new best friend. Sun exposure is the number one cause of fading, so applying a high-SPF sunscreen will protect your investment. Continue to moisturize daily to keep the skin healthy and the ink looking crisp.

Signs Your Tattoo is Healing Perfectly

It’s easy to worry about every little thing when you’re healing a new tattoo, but some signs of irritation are actually part of the normal process. A perfectly healing tattoo will likely be a little red, sore, and swollen for the first few days. Itchiness and peeling are also completely normal, especially during the second and third weeks. You should see the redness and swelling gradually go down after the first few days. As long as the discomfort is manageable and you don’t see any signs of infection (like pus or a foul odor), you’re on the right track. Just keep up with your cleaning and moisturizing routine.

When to Call Your Artist

Your tattoo artist is your best resource during the healing process. We’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help you. If you have any questions or if something just doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to reach out. Maybe your tattoo seems itchier than you expected, or you’re unsure about a product. A quick phone call or email can provide the reassurance or guidance you need. If you notice signs of a potential infection—like increasing pain, spreading redness, swelling that gets worse instead of better, or pus—it’s time to see a doctor. But for general healing concerns, please contact us at the shop first.

How to Spot Trouble: Infections and Complications

Most of the time, tattoo healing is a straightforward process. But sometimes, your body might send you signals that something isn’t quite right. Knowing how to read those signs is just as important as your daily cleaning routine. It’s all about understanding the difference between what’s normal for a healing tattoo and what’s a red flag.

Paying attention to your new ink, especially in the first couple of weeks, is key. While some redness, swelling, and tenderness are part of the package, persistent or worsening symptoms can point to a problem. Don’t worry—we’ll walk through exactly what to look for so you can feel confident and take action if needed. Your health and the beauty of your tattoo are the top priorities.

Red Flags: What to Watch For

It’s completely normal for your new tattoo to be a little red, sore, and even weep some clear fluid (plasma) mixed with ink for the first day or two. This is just your body’s natural healing response. However, if these symptoms don’t start to improve after a couple of days, it’s time to pay closer attention. Watch for redness that spreads or darkens, swelling that increases instead of subsides, or pain that feels intense rather than just tender. Another major red flag is any thick, yellow, or green pus oozing from the area. This is a clear sign of an infection and needs to be addressed.

Is It an Infection? How to Tell the Difference

So how do you know if you’re dealing with a standard healing process or a genuine infection? The difference is usually in the severity and combination of symptoms. While a healing tattoo might be warm to the touch, an infected one will often feel hot. The tenderness will escalate to significant pain, and the swelling will be pronounced. If you see pus, notice a foul odor, or develop a fever, you can be fairly certain it’s an infection. Normal healing involves scabbing and peeling, but an infection might cause angry-looking sores or pimples to form on the tattoo. Trust your gut—if it feels wrong, it probably is.

Could It Be an Allergic Reaction?

Sometimes, what looks like an infection is actually an allergic reaction to the tattoo ink. This is less common, but it happens. If your tattoo becomes intensely itchy and breaks out in a bumpy, red rash, you might be having a reaction. This can happen days or even weeks after you get your tattoo. Red ink is the most frequent culprit, but any color can potentially cause a reaction. Some people also find that their tattooed skin, particularly with red, blue, or black inks, becomes more sensitive to sunlight. If the irritation is confined to a specific color in your design, an allergy is a likely cause.

When to See a Doctor

If you have any concerns at all, your first call should be to your artist. We’ve seen it all and can often help you figure out if what you’re experiencing is normal. You can always get in touch with us at the shop for guidance. However, if you see clear signs of an infection—like spreading redness, pus, or a fever—it’s time to see a doctor. Don’t wait for it to get worse. A doctor can properly diagnose the issue and prescribe antibiotics if needed. Your health is the most important thing, and taking care of an infection quickly will also give your tattoo the best chance of healing beautifully.

What to Avoid While Your Tattoo Heals

You’ve got the tattoo, and you’ve nailed the first 24 hours. Now comes the hard part: being patient. Proper healing is just as important as the artist’s skill in making your tattoo look incredible for years to come. A huge part of that is knowing what not to do. Think of your new tattoo as a beautiful, sensitive wound that needs protection. Avoiding a few key things for the next couple of weeks will make all the difference in ensuring your art heals perfectly.

Why You Should Skip the Pool (and Hot Tub)

I know, it’s a bummer, especially in the summer, but you absolutely must avoid soaking your new tattoo. For at least two to three weeks, that means no swimming in pools, no relaxing in hot tubs, and no long baths. Your daily shower is perfectly fine and necessary for cleaning, but submerging your tattoo is a major risk. Pools and hot tubs are breeding grounds for bacteria, and since your tattoo is an open wound, soaking it can lead to a nasty infection. It can also oversaturate the skin, causing ink to leach out and resulting in a faded, patchy final product. Trust me, your tattoo will thank you for waiting.

Protecting Your New Ink from the Sun

Your new tattoo and the sun are not friends. Keep your fresh ink completely out of direct sunlight for at least two weeks, or until it’s fully done peeling. A sunburn on a healing tattoo is a recipe for disaster—it can cause blistering, prolonged scabbing, and significant color fading. Even after it’s healed, the sun is your tattoo’s number one enemy. To keep your lines sharp and colors bright for life, make a high-SPF sunscreen a non-negotiable part of your routine. For now, though, just keep it covered with loose clothing when you have to be outside. Your skin is working hard to heal, so give it a break from harsh UV rays.

Working Out with a New Tattoo

It’s a good idea to take a few days off from the gym after getting a new tattoo. Strenuous workouts cause sweating, which can irritate your healing skin and create a moist environment where bacteria can thrive. The friction from movement and tight workout clothes can also be a problem, rubbing against your tattoo and disrupting the healing process. If you absolutely must move your body, stick to light activities like walking. Avoid any exercises that cause the tattooed area to stretch or rub excessively. Give your body the time it needs to focus on healing your new art.

What to Wear Over Your New Tattoo

Let your new tattoo breathe! For the first couple of weeks, your wardrobe choices matter. Stick to loose-fitting, soft clothing made from materials like cotton. Tight clothes, especially around the tattooed area, can stick to the scabs and peeling skin, potentially pulling off ink when you remove them. This friction can also cause irritation and slow down healing. Be mindful of things like tight waistbands, bra straps, or even a heavy bag strap rubbing against your new piece. The goal is to minimize contact and let air circulate freely. For more specific advice, you can always check our shop’s info page.

Common Aftercare Mistakes to Sidestep

Patience is key, especially when the itching starts. As your tattoo heals, it will likely scab and flake—this is completely normal. Whatever you do, do not pick, scratch, or peel the skin. Doing so can pull the ink out, leading to patchiness and potential scarring. It’s tempting, I know, but you have to resist. If the itching becomes unbearable, you can try gently patting the area with a clean hand. Also, avoid over-moisturizing. A thin layer of lotion is all you need; slathering it on can clog your pores and trap bacteria, which is one of the most common tattoo aftercare mistakes.

Keeping Your Tattoo Sharp for Life

Once your tattoo is fully healed, the real journey begins. Think of your tattoo as a long-term investment in your skin, and like any piece of art, it needs a little maintenance to stay looking its best. The good news is that long-term care is simple and easy to build into your daily routine. It all comes down to keeping your skin healthy and protected from the elements. With a few consistent habits, you can keep your lines crisp and your colors vibrant for decades to come. The goal isn’t to freeze it in time—all tattoos settle and age with you—but to ensure it ages gracefully, looking just as bold as you feel.

Your Long-Term Maintenance Plan

Your tattoo is part of your skin, so healthy skin means a healthy-looking tattoo. The number one rule of long-term care is to keep your skin moisturized. Applying a gentle, fragrance-free lotion daily helps maintain your skin’s elasticity and keeps the ink from looking dull or dry. This is especially important for tattoos on areas that get a lot of wear and tear, like your hands, feet, or elbows. A simple daily moisturizing habit can make a huge difference in how sharp your tattoo looks years down the line. For more tips on general tattoo wellness, you can always check our shop’s info page.

Sunscreen: Your Tattoo’s Best Friend

If moisturizer is rule number one, sunscreen is rule 1A. The sun’s UV rays are the single biggest culprit when it comes to fading tattoos. They break down the ink particles in your skin, causing colors to lose their punch and black lines to blur over time. To prevent this, make sunscreen your tattoo’s best friend. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and apply it every time your tattoo is going to be exposed to the sun. This isn’t just for beach days; it’s for any time you’re outdoors. Proper tattoo aftercare extends for the life of your tattoo, and sun protection is the most important part.

How to Keep Your Colors from Fading

Beyond sunscreen, keeping your colors bright is all about holistic skin health. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water helps keep your skin plump and healthy, which makes the ink underneath look its best. You should also be mindful of what you put on your skin. Avoid using harsh chemical exfoliants directly over your tattoo, as they can accelerate skin cell turnover and potentially dull the ink over time. A gentle approach to skincare over your tattooed areas will help preserve its vibrancy. The key is to take care of your tattoo by protecting the skin it lives in.

Is It Time for a Touch-Up?

Even with the most diligent aftercare, it’s natural for tattoos to fade a little over many years. You might notice that fine lines aren’t quite as sharp or that some colors have softened. This is a normal part of the aging process for any tattoo. If you look at your piece and feel it’s lost some of its original magic, it might be time for a touch-up. A touch-up session can redefine lines, re-saturate colors, and bring your tattoo back to life. If you think your tattoo could use a refresh, feel free to contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our artists.

Frequently Asked Questions

My new tattoo is so itchy! What can I do? The itchy phase is often the most challenging part of healing, but it’s a totally normal sign that your skin is regenerating. Whatever you do, resist the urge to scratch, as this can damage the delicate new skin and pull out ink. Instead, you can gently pat or tap the area with a clean hand to relieve the sensation. Applying a thin layer of your approved fragrance-free lotion can also provide a lot of relief by keeping the skin hydrated and soothed.

How can I tell if my tattoo is infected or just healing normally? It’s normal for a new tattoo to be red, swollen, and tender for a few days. The key difference is that normal healing symptoms will gradually improve. An infection, on the other hand, will get worse. Watch for redness that spreads, swelling that increases after day three, pain that becomes more severe, or any yellow or green pus. A healing tattoo might feel warm, but an infected one will often feel hot to the touch. If you suspect an infection, it’s best to see a doctor.

When is my tattoo considered fully healed? Your tattoo will look healed on the surface in about two to four weeks, once all the scabbing and peeling is finished. This is when you can typically stop the intensive washing routine. However, the deeper layers of your skin are still repairing themselves for up to six months. You should wait until it’s at least a month healed before you go swimming or expose it to direct sun, but protecting it from UV rays with sunscreen is a lifelong commitment.

Is it possible to moisturize my tattoo too much? Yes, you absolutely can. While moisturizing is crucial, more is not better. Applying too much lotion or ointment can clog your pores and trap moisture against the skin, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and potentially leading to infection or healing issues. You only need a very thin layer, just enough to make the tattoo shine slightly. If it looks greasy or goopy, you’ve used too much and should gently dab the excess off with a clean paper towel.

What’s the single most important thing I can do to keep my tattoo looking good forever? Sunscreen. Without a doubt, consistent sun protection is the best thing you can do to preserve your tattoo for life. The sun’s UV rays break down the ink in your skin, causing black lines to blur and colors to fade dramatically over time. Once your tattoo is fully healed, get into the habit of applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every single time it will be exposed to the sun.

How to Care for a New Tattoo: A Step-by-Step Guide