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AFTERCARE 

Congratulations on your new tattoo! Proper aftercare is essential to ensure your tattoo heals beautifully and stays vibrant for years to come. Healing typically takes 2–4 weeks, although deeper layers of skin can continue healing for several months.

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Remove the Cling Film

  • Remove the cling film after 2–4 hours unless your artist has advised otherwise.

  • It is normal to see excess ink, blood, and plasma collected under the wrap.
     

First Wash
 

Using clean hands:

  1. Wash the tattoo gently with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap.

  2. Remove all traces of blood, plasma, and excess ink.

  3. Do not scrub or use a washcloth or sponge.

Drying

  • Pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel or allow it to air dry.

  • Do not rub with a towel.
     

Moisturising
 

Once completely dry:

  • Apply a very thin layer of tattoo aftercare balm or a fragrance-free moisturiser.

  • Less is more—your tattoo should not feel greasy or suffocated.
     

Ongoing Care
 

For the next 2–4 weeks:

  • Wash your tattoo 2–3 times daily.

  • Apply a thin layer of moisturiser whenever the tattoo feels dry.

  • As healing progresses, your tattoo will begin to flake and peel. This is completely normal.

  • Never pick at peeling skin or scabs, as this can remove ink and cause scarring.

If Your Tattoo Is Covered with Cling Film

If Your Tattoo Is Covered with Second Skin

Second Skin creates a protective barrier that helps keep bacteria out while allowing your tattoo to heal.

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During the First 24 Hours

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It is completely normal for the bandage to fill with:

  • Plasma

  • Blood

  • Excess ink

This may look alarming, but it is a normal part of the healing process.

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When to Remove It

Keep the Second Skin on for 3–5 days, unless:

  • The seal breaks.

  • Water gets underneath.

  • It begins leaking.

  • There is significant irritation or an allergic reaction.

If any of these happen, remove it immediately.

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Removing Second Skin

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The easiest way to remove it is during a warm shower.

  • Slowly stretch the bandage low and parallel to your skin rather than pulling it straight up.

  • Remove gently to minimise discomfort.

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After Removal

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  1. Wash the tattoo thoroughly using lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap.

  2. Pat dry with a clean paper towel.

  3. Allow the tattoo to air dry for a few minutes.

  4. Apply a very thin layer of fragrance-free moisturiser or tattoo aftercare balm.

  5. ​

Continue washing and moisturising 2–3 times daily until fully healed.

What to Expect During Healing

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Your tattoo may:

  • Feel warm for the first 24–48 hours.

  • Appear red or slightly swollen.

  • Feel tight or dry.

  • Peel like a mild sunburn.

  • Become itchy during healing.

These are all normal parts of the healing process.

Avoid During Healing

  • Swimming pools

  • Hot tubs

  • Baths (showers are fine)

  • Saunas and steam rooms

  • Direct sun exposure

  • Fake tan

  • Heavy scratching

  • Picking scabs or peeling skin

  • Tight or abrasive clothing rubbing against the tattoo

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Please get in touch if you have any questions or concerns during healing.

You should also seek medical advice if you notice:

  • Increasing redness spreading beyond the tattoo.

  • Excessive swelling after the first few days.

  • Thick yellow or green discharge.

  • A foul smell.

  • Severe pain that worsens instead of improving.

  • Fever or feeling generally unwell.

These may be signs of an infection and should be assessed by a healthcare professional.

When to contact me - 

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Once your tattoo is fully healed:

  • Keep it moisturised regularly.

  • Protect it with a high SPF sunscreen whenever it is exposed to sunlight.

  • Healthy, hydrated skin helps your tattoo stay bright and sharp for years to come.

Thank you for trusting me with your tattoo. If you have any questions during the healing process, don't hesitate to get in touch—I'm always happy to help. Enjoy your new ink!

Long-Term Care

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