Bandage or not? Cream—but which one? When can I go back into the sun? All this and more is explained here:
Let’s start with the no-gos in tattoo aftercare: what should you avoid?
Avoid long showers, baths, or swimming until the tattoo is fully healed (at least six weeks), as chlorine can irritate the tattooed skin and draw out pigment.
Avoid touching, scratching, or frequently handling the tattoo, as this increases the risk of inflammation and scarring.
Make sure to drink enough water and maintain a vitamin-rich diet, as this helps your skin regenerate more quickly.
Protect your tattoo from sun exposure, as UV rays can damage the pigments and cause fading. Always use sufficient sun protection (SPF 30+ is a safe choice).
Step-by-step aftercare guide for your tattoo
01 – It is strongly recommended to apply a breathable bandage immediately after getting tattooed. Good thing you’ll receive one from me right after your session.
02 – After 6–8 hours:
Leave the breathable bandage unchanged. Only replace it if necessary (for example, if a lot of wound fluid has accumulated—otherwise leave it on for three to five days). Before changing it, wash your hands, rinse the tattoo with warm water, gently pat it dry with a lint-free towel (paper towels work best), let it air dry, and then apply a new bandage.
04 – From day 4 onward:
Support skin regeneration by removing the bandage completely. Avoid sports and swimming. Wear loose clothing over the tattoo and keep it clean. Apply a thin layer of tattoo cream in the morning and evening (or up to six times daily depending on your skin type). Always wash your hands before applying cream to prevent contamination and infection.
05 – From week 3 onward:
Begin your regular daily tattoo care routine to protect it long-term from fading and blurring.
06 – Before sun exposure:
Apply cream thoroughly! Proper moisturizing is essential to keep your tattoo looking fresh and vibrant. UV radiation is the main cause of fading.
Which creams and care products should I use?
Body lotion—yes or no?
It is definitely better to use a regular body lotion than not to care for your tattoo at all. Most lotions provide moisture and help smooth the skin. However, there are products specifically designed for tattooed skin. With the right ingredients, they can help preserve the brightness and sharpness of your tattoo. Investing in specialized products may even save you money in the long run by reducing the need for touch-ups.
Are there areas of the body that require extra care?
Yes. The location of a tattoo significantly affects how it ages. Areas that experience frequent stress—such as hands and feet (due to washing) or joints (due to friction)—require extra attention. In these areas, it’s advisable to moisturize several times a day to prevent fading.
Do some colors fade faster than others?
Yes. Red tones, in particular, are more prone to fading under UV exposure. However, there are specialized tattoo care products with UV protection that help preserve the vibrancy of red tattoos and reduce the need for early touch-ups.
What should I consider if I have skin conditions?
If you have a skin condition, it’s important to follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding tattoo care. If you’ve been prescribed a topical medication (such as a cream, gel, or ointment), a simple rule applies: prioritize the medication. Unless your doctor advises otherwise, apply the medication first and, after 10–20 minutes, use your usual tattoo care products. If you are unsure, consult a dermatologist.
My product recommendations for your tattoo aftercare
For the days and weeks immediately after getting tattooed:
After Tattoo von TattooMed®
or
Repair Balm von SKIN STORIES®
You can also use another fragrance-free cream containing panthenol, as long as it isn’t too greasy.
For long-term care:
Daily Tattoo Care von TattooMed®
or
Daily Lotion von SKIN STORIES®
On sunny days, you can use a regular sunscreen with SPF 30+, or products from TattooMed® and SKIN STORIES®.