Tattoo Aftercare — The Ritual of Healing
Your new tattoo is more than ink — it’s a vow, a story, a mark chosen in the quiet electricity between you and the artist.
This guide shows you how to protect it, preserve it, and help it heal with clarity and intention.
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The First Day Protecting the Fresh Mark
Your artist seals your new tattoo with Dermalize, a breathable adhesive film designed to protect the wound and support faster, cleaner healing.
Keep Dermalize on for 4–6 days.
If it begins lifting or peeling, it's safe to remove it early and continue with the washing and moisturizing ritual below.
Dermalize acts as a temporary shield. When it comes off, the real transformation begins.
Tattoo Healing Process
Your Daily Ritual
Caring for your tattoo is a sacred routine.The early days determine how boldly your art will live beneath your skin.
Cleanse the Tattoo Gently
Once you remove Dermalize:
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Wash the tattoo with warm water and fragrance-free, mild soap.
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Use clean hands only.
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Avoid towels, sponges, loofahs, or cloths — anything abrasive can damage your healing skin.
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Rinse softly.
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Let the tattoo air dry completely.
Repeat this cleansing ritual twice a day for 2–3 weeks.
Step 2 — Moisturize With Purpose
Once your tattoo is fully dry:
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Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free moisturizer.
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Allow the skin to breathe — never smother it with thick ointments.
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We recommend Stories & Ink for its gentle formula.
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Avoid petroleum-based products entirely; they can cause ink dullness over time.
Moisturize 2–3 times a day for the first few weeks.
Let the Tattoo Breathe
As the tattoo heals, the skin will form scabs and flakes. This is natural.To support healing:Keep the tattoo uncovered as much as possible.If clothing must touch the area, choose loose, soft fabrics.Keep your sheets and blankets fresh for at least 2 weeks to avoid irritation or infection.
The Itch Test (Do Not Scratch)
Your tattoo will itch as it heals — consider this a test of patience.Do not scratch.Do not pick scabs or flakes.Scratching can lift ink, cause patchiness, and increase infection risk.When the itch begins, applying a light layer of moisturizer can help soothe the skin.
What NOT to Do (Crucial Aftercare Rules)
For 2–3 weeks, avoid:
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Sun exposure
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Swimming (pools, ocean, lakes, hot tubs)
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Saunas & steam rooms
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Heavy sweating on the tattoo
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Tight clothing rubbing the area
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Over-moisturizing
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Scratching or peeling skin
These can slow healing and dull the tattoo’s color.
Tattoo Healing Timeline (What to Expect)
Day 1–6Healing under Dermalize; the skin seals and calms.
Day 6–14Scabbing, peeling, dryness, and itching. Colors look muted.
Week 3–4Outer layers heal; the tattoo begins sharpening again.
Month 1–3Deeper layers settle. The tattoo reaches its final healed appearance.
When to Contact Your Artist
Reach out to us if you notice:
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Increasing redness
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Excess heat in the area
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Unusual discharge
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Spreading irritation
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Anything feeling “off”
We’re here to guide you through the process.
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Tattoo Aftercare FAQ
Q: How long should I keep Dermalize/Saniderm on after getting a tattoo?
Keep it on for 4–6 days, or until it begins lifting.
Q: What soap should I use to wash a new tattoo?
Use warm water and a fragrance-free, gentle soap.
Q: How often should I moisturize my tattoo?
Lightly moisturize 2–3 times a day.
Q: Can I work out after getting a tattoo?
Avoid heavy sweating for at least 1 week.
Q: When can I swim after getting a tattoo?
Avoid swimming for 2–3 weeks or until fully healed.
Q: Why is my tattoo peeling?
Peeling is normal during healing. Do not pick or scratch.
Q: Why does my tattoo look dull or faded during healing?
The top layer of skin is repairing itself — the tattoo brightens again as deeper layers settle.