Tattoo Aftercare: The Complete Guide

## Tattoo Aftercare Done Right Your tattoo is an investment. Proper aftercare ensures it heals clean, vibrant, and exactly how your artist intended. Here's a detailed day-by-day guide. ## Day 1: Fresh Ink - Leave the wrap/bandage on for the time recommended by your artist (typically 2-4 hours, or overnight with second-skin bandages) - When you remove the bandage, wash gently with lukewarm water and unscented antibacterial soap - Pat dry with a clean paper towel — never use a towel that's been sitting around - Apply a very thin layer of aftercare ointment (Aquaphor, Hustle Butter, or whatever your artist recommends) ## Days 2-3: Initial Healing - Wash 2-3 times daily with the same gentle soap - Apply thin layers of ointment after each wash - The tattoo will look shiny and may feel warm — this is normal - You may notice some ink and plasma on your sheets — also normal ## Days 4-7: The Peeling Phase - Your tattoo will start to peel and flake — **do not pick at it** - Switch from ointment to an unscented lotion (Lubriderm, Cetaphil, or CeraVe) - Continue washing gently - Itching is normal — tap the area gently instead of scratching ## Days 7-14: Almost There - Peeling should be mostly done - Continue moisturizing regularly - The tattoo may look cloudy or dull — this is the "milky phase" and is temporary - Colors and lines will sharpen as the top layer of skin fully regenerates ## What to Avoid During Healing - **No swimming** — pools, oceans, hot tubs, or baths for at least 2 weeks - **No direct sunlight** — UV will damage the healing ink - **No gym** — excessive sweating can irritate the area (light activity is fine) - **No tight clothing** over the tattoo - **No picking or scratching** — ever ## Long-Term Care Once healed: - **Always use sunscreen** (SPF 30+) on your tattoos when exposed to sun - **Moisturize regularly** — hydrated skin keeps tattoos looking fresh - **Schedule touch-ups** if needed — most artists offer free touch-ups within a certain window ## Questions? If you have any concerns during healing, don't hesitate to reach out. I'm available through my [Level 2 booking page](https://lvl2.ink) or through [Love Story Art Collective](https://lovestoryart.co). Based in Somerset, KY. --- *Russell Cain IV is a tattoo artist in Somerset, Kentucky, working in every style. Book your session at [russellcainiv.com/book](/book).*