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Full Guide: How to Care for Your New Tattoo

Professional Aftercare Instructions

Your tattoo is a work of art, but it is also an open wound that requires special attention during the first few weeks. The final result depends 50% on the work done in the studio and 50% on your care at home. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure perfect healing. ​


1. Adhesive Bandage (Second Skin)
The bandage applied at the end of the session is essential for protecting the area from bacteria.

  • Wear Time: Keep it on for 24 hours to 5 days, depending on the specific instructions given during your session.

  • How to Remove It: Remove it under a gentle stream of lukewarm water. Peel it off carefully and slowly.

  • When to Remove it Early: If you notice water leaking in, fluids leaking out from under the patch, or if the bandage tears, remove it immediately. Check your tattoo every morning, as well as before and after showering.

  • Important Note: If I provided you with a second patch, apply it following the same instructions and skip the healing ointment and daily washing steps for the next 5 days.

2. Hygiene and Washing

Once the bandage is removed, cleaning is key to preventing infection.

  • Frequency: Wash the area twice a day for a full week.

  • Technique: Use your clean hands (never sponges or scouring pads) and give gentle massages with warm water and neutral soap.

  • Drying: Do not rub. Pat dry with a paper towel or a clean cloth towel that is used exclusively for your tattoo. Make sure no moisture remains.

Ejemplo de lavado de tatuaje recién echo
Ejemplo de secado de tatuaje recién echo
Ejemplo de colocación de crema cicatrizante

3. Hydration and Skin Process

  • Healing ointment: Apply the recommended cream twice a day (morning and night). Always remove any excess with light dabs of a paper towel; the tattoo should look moisturized, but not "greasy".

  • Peeling: It's normal for your skin to start peeling. Don't intentionally remove the dead skin; let it fall off on its own. If your skin feels very dry, you can apply a little more cream.

  • Itching: Don't scratch! If the discomfort is severe, apply some ointment to soothe the sensation.

4. What you should avoid (Restrictions)

To avoid compromising the color and definition of your tattoo, avoid the following:

  • Prohibited substances: Do not apply alcohol, petroleum jelly, chlorine, or any other non-recommended substance.

  • Aquatic environments: No swimming pools, saunas, sea or rivers for the first 3 to 4 weeks.

  • Direct sun: Avoid sun exposure for one month. Once healed, always use broad-spectrum sunscreen to maintain vibrant colors.

Evita la exposición directa al sol

  • Clothing: Avoid constant friction. Wear loose-fitting cotton clothing for at least the first 3 days.

  • Pets and objects: Make sure your tattoo does not come into contact with animals or dirty surfaces.

  • Physical exertion: Avoid strenuous exercise, dancing, or heavy labor for at least a week. Sweat and stretching of the skin can disrupt the process.

5. General Recommendations

  • Hydration: Drink enough water.

  • Zero alcohol: Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages for at least the first 3 days after your session.

  • Environmental hygiene: Stay in cool, clean places; excessive heat and dirt delay healing.

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