Tattoo Aftercare Guide
Follow our aftercare guide to heal your tattoo safely, protect your skin, and keep your artwork vibrant, clean, and long-lasting.
- Tattoo Aftercare Guide
UpperCuts Tattoo Shop
Your Tattoo Aftercare Guide
Congratulations on your new tattoo! The hard part is over, but the next two weeks are crucial for making sure your new art heals perfectly. Follow these instructions carefully to protect your investment and ensure your tattoo looks amazing for years to come.
Part 1
The Second Skin Method (First 3-5 Days)
We have applied a clear, breathable bandage called "second skin." This is the best way to start the healing process. We have also given you a second piece to apply at home.
The First 24 Hours
Keep the first bandage we applied on for a full 24 hours.
You will notice some fluid building up underneath the bandage. This is a mix of plasma, ink, and blood, and it is completely normal. This fluid actually helps your tattoo heal. Do not drain it. Leave it alone and let the bandage do its job.
After 24 Hours: Replacing the Bandage
After 24 hours, it is time to replace the second skin. Follow these steps carefully:
- Wash Your Hands: Always start with clean hands before touching your new tattoo.
- Remove the First Bandage: The easiest way to do this is in the shower. Let warm (not hot) water run over the bandage for a minute to loosen the adhesive. Find an edge and slowly peel it back, pulling it down and parallel to your skin, not away from it. This helps it come off gently.
- Clean the Tattoo: Using a gentle, unscented liquid soap, wash the tattoo with your fingertips. Do not use a washcloth or loofah. Gently remove all the plasma and excess ink. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Pat Dry: Use a clean paper towel to gently pat the tattoo dry. Do not rub it. Let it air dry for another 5-10 minutes until it is completely dry to the touch.
- Apply the Second Bandage: Peel the backing off the new piece of second skin we gave you. Apply it over the clean, dry tattoo, making sure there is at least a one-inch border of bandage around the tattoo. Smooth it down from the center outwards to avoid air bubbles.
The Next 3-4 Days
Part 2
Traditional Aftercare (After Removing Second Skin)
Once the second bandage is off, your tattoo will be in the peeling stage. Now you will heal it like a normal wound.
Washing Your Tattoo
Wash your tattoo 2-3 times a day with unscented soap and lukewarm water. Use only your clean hands to gently wash away any flakes or dried plasma. Pat it dry with a clean paper towel.
Moisturizing Your Tattoo
After washing and drying your tattoo, apply a very thin layer of unscented, gentle lotion. You want just enough to make it shine, not a thick, goopy layer. Over-moisturizing can harm the healing process. Do this 2-3 times a day after washing.
The Healing Process: What to Expect
- Week 1: Your tattoo will peel and flake like a sunburn. This is normal. You will also experience some itching. Do not scratch it! Gently pat or tap the area if it becomes very itchy.
- Weeks 2-4: The flaking will stop, and your tattoo might look a little dull or have a waxy, shiny appearance. This is called "silver skin" and is the final stage of healing. Keep moisturizing, and the vibrancy will return as the new skin settles.
Important Rules for a Perfect Tattoo
To ensure the best results, you MUST avoid the following for at least 2-3 weeks:
- NO swimming, baths, hot tubs, or saunas. (Showering is fine).
- NO picking, scratching, or peeling your tattoo.
- NO direct sunlight or tanning beds. (After it is healed, always use SPF 50+ to protect it).
- NO tight clothing that will rub against the tattoo.
When to Worry
Your tattoo is an open wound, and infections are possible, though rare with proper care. Contact us or a doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Redness and swelling that increases after 3 days.
- Pus or foul-smelling fluid coming from the tattoo.
- Intense pain, not just soreness.
- Fever.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the shop. We are here to help!