Congratulations on your new tattoo! Proper aftercare is essential to ensure your tattoo heals beautifully. At Avant Art Tattoo Studio, we want to make the process as smooth as possible for you, so we created this comprehensive aftercare guide providing:
✔ Step-by-step instructions on cleaning and moisturising your tattoo
✔ The best healing methods (second skin vs. cling film)
✔ What’s normal during healing and when to seek help
✔ What to avoid to prevent infection or fading
General Tattoo Aftercare Instructions
1. Keep Your Tattoo Covered
Your artist will cover your fresh tattoo with cling film or second skin (we’ll explain both methods below). Leave it on for the time recommended by your artist to protect the tattoo from bacteria and irritation.
2. Wash Your Tattoo Gently
When it’s time to remove the wrap:
✔ Wash your hands thoroughly.
✔ Use lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap to clean the area.
✔ Pat dry with a clean towel or let it air dry, never rub!
3. Apply a Tattoo Aftercare Cream
✔ Use a thin layer of the tattoo aftercare lotion recommended by your artist.
✔ Don’t overdo it! Too much cream can suffocate the skin and slow healing.
4. Repeat Daily
For 2-3 weeks, wash and moisturise your tattoo 2-3 times a day to keep it hydrated and protected.
Tattoo Healing Methods: Which One is Best for You?
At Avant Art Tattoo Studio, we use two primary aftercare methods:
1. Second Skin + Aftercare Cream
What It Is: A medical-grade adhesive bandage that acts as a breathable barrier over your tattoo. It protects the tattoo while keeping it moisturised for faster healing.
✅ How It Works:
✔ Applied by your tattoo artist right after your session.
✔ Stays on for a few days (your artist will advise how long).
✔ After removal, wash the tattoo and switch to aftercare cream.
🔹 Best for: Those who prefer a low-maintenance healing process with less irritation.
2.Cling Film + Aftercare Cream
What It Is: A traditional healing method where your tattoo is wrapped in cling film after the session.
✅ How It Works:
✔ Keep the wrap on for about 2 hours, then remove it.
✔ Wash the tattoo, pat it dry, and apply aftercare cream regularly.
✔ Repeat this process daily until fully healed.
🔹 Best for: People comfortable with daily cleaning or those with sensitive skin that may react to adhesives.
Key Differences:
✔ Cling film requires more hands-on care from day one, while second skin allows the tattoo to heal undisturbed for longer.
✔ Second skin provides more comfort but may cause irritation in rare cases.
Your tattoo artist will recommend the best method for your tattoo and skin type.
How to Choose the Best Tattoo Aftercare Cream
Tattoos are essentially open wounds, and just like any wound, they need proper care to heal correctly. Using a high-quality tattoo healing cream helps:
✔ Speed up healing by keeping the skin hydrated and preventing excessive scabbing.
✔ Reduce irritation such as redness, swelling, and itchiness.
✔ Prevent infection by forming a protective barrier against bacteria.
✔ Preserve tattoo vibrancy by ensuring the skin heals evenly without excessive peeling or fading.
While many creams claim to offer benefits, only those specifically formulated for tattoos provide the right balance of moisture, protection, and healing ingredients. Here’s what to look for when choosing the best tattoo cream for healing:
1. Hydrating Ingredients
Keeping your tattoo moisturised is crucial to prevent dryness and cracking. Look for:
• Aloe vera – Soothes and hydrates the skin.
• Shea butter – Deeply moisturizes without clogging pores.
• Hyaluronic acid – Helps retain moisture for longer lasting hydration.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Agents
New tattoos often experience redness and swelling. Ingredients that help reduce inflammation include:
• Chamomile extract – Naturally soothes irritated skin.
• Calendula – Known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
3. Antimicrobial Protection
A fresh tattoo is vulnerable to infection, so it’s important to choose a cream that includes antimicrobial properties. Look for:
• Coconut oil – Contains natural antibacterial properties.
• Tea tree oil – Fights bacteria and soothes inflammation.
4. Healing Boosters
Some ingredients actively promote skin regeneration, helping your tattoo heal faster and more evenly:
• Vitamin E – Helps repair skin and prevent scarring.
5. Fragrance-Free & Non-Irritating Formula
Avoid creams with artificial fragrances, alcohol, or harsh chemicals, as they can cause irritation, dryness, or allergic reactions.
At Avant Art Tattoo Studio, we offer a selection of top-rated tattoo aftercare creams designed to give your new ink the best possible healing environment.
What to Expect During Healing (That’s Totally Normal)
Here are some things you might notice during the tattoo healing process that are normal, no need to panic!
1. Redness & Swelling (First Few Days)
• Inflammation is a natural response to the tattooing process.
• If your tattoo is on your feet or legs, elevate them to reduce swelling.
• Avoid tight clothing that may rub against your tattoo.
2. Peeling & Flaking (Days 3-7)
• Your tattoo will start to shed dead skin—this is normal!
• Do not pick at peeling skin, as this can cause uneven healing.
• Keep the area moisturised with a recommended tattoo aftercare cream.
3. Itching (Week 1-2)
• As your skin heals, it may itch, but don’t scratch!
• Applying fragrance-free moisturisers can help soothe the itch.
4. Scabbing (Week 1-2)
• Some scabbing is normal, but do not pick at them, as this can cause scarring.
• Keep the tattoo clean and hydrated to prevent excessive scabbing.
5. Dull or Cloudy Appearance (Week 2-4)
• Your tattoo may appear faded or dull, this is part of the skin’s regeneration process.
• After the healing phase, the tattoo will regain its vibrancy.
Tattoo Aftercare: Do’s & Don’ts
✅ Things You Should Do:
✔ Wash gently with mild, fragrance-free soap.
✔ Apply a thin layer of tattoo healing cream (not too much!).
✔ Wear loose clothing to prevent irritation.
✔ Stay hydrated to promote skin regeneration.
❌ Things to Avoid:
❌ No Swimming – Avoid pools, hot tubs, and the ocean for at least 2-3 weeks.
❌ No Direct Sunlight – UV rays can cause fading and irritation. Once healed, always use SPF 50+ sunscreen.
❌ No Scratching or Picking – This can lead to scarring and uneven healing.
❌ No Heavy Workouts – Excessive sweating or friction can delay healing.
Your Responsibility in Tattoo Aftercare
Your tattoo artist has given you an incredible piece of art, but proper aftercare is up to you. Neglecting aftercare can lead to fading, scarring, or even infection. By following these tattoo healing tips, you’ll ensure your ink stays vibrant and healthy for years to come.
If you have any questions or concerns during healing, reach out to us at Avant Art Tattoo Studio, we’re here to help!
Need the Best Tattoo Aftercare Products?
Stop by our studio to browse our recommended tattoo aftercare creams and soaps for optimal healing.
Avant Art Tattoo Team