Healing timeline
The first month
Most tattoos look healed on the surface in 2–4 weeks. Large pieces can take longer.
- First hours
Leave the wrap on as instructed
Keep the covering or second-skin film on for as long as your artist tells you. Remove it with clean hands.
- Days 1 – 3
Clean gently, twice a day
Wash with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap using your fingertips. Pat dry with a clean paper towel and apply a very thin layer of the aftercare product you were advised to use.
- Days 4 – 14
Peeling & itching are normal
The tattoo may flake and itch. Do not scratch or pick; let the flakes fall off on their own. Keep moisturizing lightly.
- Weeks 2 – 4
Settling in
The surface looks healed, but the skin underneath is still recovering. Keep it moisturized and out of strong sun.
- Long term
Protect the ink
Use a high-SPF sunscreen on healed tattoos to keep the lines sharp and colors bright for years.
Do’s & don’ts
While it heals
Do
- Wash your hands before touching the tattoo
- Wear loose, clean clothing over the area
- Sleep on clean sheets for the first nights
- Drink water and look after yourself
- Message us if you have any questions
Avoid
- Swimming pools, sea, sauna or baths until healed
- Direct sun and tanning beds on the fresh tattoo
- Scratching, picking or peeling the flakes
- Thick layers of ointment that suffocate the skin
- Tight clothes rubbing on the area
Piercing
Piercing aftercare
Clean the piercing gently with a sterile saline solution as advised, and keep hair, phones and headphones away from fresh ear piercings. Do not twist or remove the jewelry while it heals, and avoid sleeping on the pierced side. Healing times vary a lot by placement, so ask us about your specific piercing.