To enjoy your tattoo as long as possible, it is extremely important to take care of it.

Here is a summary of the golden rules to follow to take good care of your tattoo:

  • Don't let your tattoo dry out
  • Clean your tattoo regularly
  • During the first few weeks, do not bathe, be careful with your tattoo when bathing or showering.
  • Avoid sweat and dirt on your tattoo
  • No sun exposure or sunbathing
  • Avoid touching your tattoo, even if it itches, as this is part of the healing process.
  • Don't wear clothes that are too tight

For more detailed information:

Don't let your tattoo dry out

Moisturizing your tattoo is one of the most important tips we can give you. During the healing phase, you should regularly apply a suitable moisturizer to your tattoo.

 

If your tattoo looks dry, it will heal more slowly and you are more likely to get scabs.

The scabs may tear, and your tattoo may start to bleed again.

This can cause ugly spots to appear on your tattoo, and you may need to have your tattoo touched up.

 

How often should you apply oil to your tattoo?

If possible, you should moisturize your tattoo every 4 hours for the first 4 days. Then, at least twice a day, in the morning and in the evening, until your tattoo is completely healed. The healing of your tattoo takes about 2 to 4 weeks. 

MOISTURE YES, BUT DON'T DROWN YOUR TATTOO!

A wound that is too moist increases the risk of infection. And not only that. By applying cream on your tattoo in too thick layer, you suffocate your skin and your tattoo can't breathe. This is not ideal for healing.

Clean your tattoo regularly

For the healing of your tattoo, it is important to clean it regularly.

By cleaning your tattoo, you help protect it from bacteria and remove excess ink. It also helps prevent unsightly scabs on your tattoo.

For the first few days, it is important to clean your tattoo at least twice a day. This way, you make sure that bacteria have no chance to damage your tattoo.

TIP: Use a special tattoo soap to clean your tattoo. Not only will it clean your tattoo, but it will protect and care for it.

How long do you continue to care for your tattoo?

You should continue to clean and moisturize your tattoo until it heals.

The healing time varies from one person to another, so listen to your body.

Avoid swimming or bathing for a while.

Until your tattoo has healed, it is not safe to go swimming. The ink can come off your skin and this can dull your tattoo.

Also, bacteria in the water can get into your tattoo and infect it.

Can you shower with your new tattoo?

Yes, but don't shower for more than 5 minutes until your tattoo has healed.

Avoid sweat and dirt in the wound

Be sure to keep your tattoo as clean as possible.

Dirt or sweat can cause infections of your tattoo. Keep your tattoo as clean as possible and be careful with sports and heavy physical labor until your tattoo has healed.

No prolonged exposure to the sun or sunbathing

Until your tattoo has healed, it is best to avoid exposure to the sun. Exposure to the sun's rays or prolonged exposure can cause blisters and fade the colors of your tattoo. Even after your tattoo has healed, you should still be careful in the sun by using a suitable sunscreen.

Avoid touching your tattoo, even if it itches, as this is part of the healing process.

During the healing process, it is normal for the skin to itch. Do not scratch it! You can damage your tattoo by scratching the scabs or the skin when it itches. You also run a very high risk of your tattoo getting infected!

Proper use of after-tattoo care can reduce or even prevent itching and scabbing.

You can also avoid scabbing as much as possible by letting your tattoo heal for the first few days with a self-adhesive tattoo wrap.

This second skin protects you from infections and ensures that your tattoo does not dry out.

Don't wear clothes that are too tight

Do not wear tight-fitting clothes, especially at first. It is advisable and proven that cotton clothes absorb well and are easy to clean.

Is your tattoo stuck to your clothes or bedding?

Don't panic! Soak it gently in warm water. If necessary, shower with all your clothes on. Don't try to remove it all at once.

What else can you do to help your wound heal?

You can take vitamin C during the healing process.

If you don't have enough vitamin C in your body, your tattoo won't heal as quickly. Also be careful with alcohol, as excess alcohol impairs the absorption of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C.

The last tip we can give you: Keep an eye on your tattoo during the healing process!