First things first, a few recommended lotions for each step in the healing process:
Day 1-4 Bepanthen 100g Ointment
Day 4-14 Aveeno Lotion
Sunblock ThinkSport Lotion or Spray
For the first night...
- Keep the bandage on overnight if possible. This will protect the tattoo from scabbing or sticking onto bed sheets and clothes.
- You can wear a shirt to sleep to keep the bandage in place.
The next morning:
- Wash your hands before touching the tattoo.
- Gently remove the bandage and wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap.
- Pat dry with a clean paper towel (do not rub).
- Apply a thin layer of bepanthen.
- There is no need to reapply a bandage.
Days 3 and 4:
- Wash the tattoo 2 times daily with mild soap and lukewarm water.
- Pat dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
- Apply a thin layer of bepanthen after washing tattoo.
- Do not pick, scratch, or peel the tattoo as it heals.
- Peeling is normal!
Days 4-17:
- Repeat the washing process from days 3 & 4 – at this point, drying with a normal towel is fine.
- Once the tattoo is near the end of the peeling process, switch over to a fragrance free hand & body lotion.
- After the first two weeks, moisturize as needed and avoid direct sun exposure until the follow up appointment.
During the Healing Process
- Avoid direct sunlight on the tattoo.
- Do not soak the tattoo (no baths, pools, hot tubs, lakes, or oceans).
- Avoid tight clothing that rubs against the tattoo.
- Do not shave over the tattoo until fully healed.
- Avoid heavy sweating or intense workouts for the first 1-3 days if possible.
Healing Timeline
- Most tattoos heal on the surface within 2–3 weeks.
- Full healing may take 2-3 months.
Long-Term Care
Always apply SPF 40+ sunscreen once the tattoo is fully healed.