This tattoo aftercare guide explains how to clean, moisturize and protect a new tattoo during healing, plus warning signs that may require medical care. Healing time varies by tattoo size, placement, skin and the protective film used. Follow the instructions provided by your artist, use this tattoo aftercare guide as general information, and contact Overthink-Ink if you notice anything unusual or have questions.
CONTACT THE STUDIOTHE FIRST 3 DAYS: TATTOO AFTERCARE GUIDE
Follow the aftercare instructions given by your artist. Dressing type and recommended wear time may vary depending on the tattoo, placement and protective film used.
01 — KEEP THE FILM ON
Keep the protective film on for up to three days, as instructed by your OVERTHINK-INK artist. Avoid unnecessarily touching or lifting the film.
02 — CLEAN AFTER REMOVAL
Wash your hands before touching the tattoo. Gently clean it with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean paper towel or soft clean towel. Do not rub.
03 — APPLY A THIN LAYER
Once the tattoo is clean and completely dry, apply a very thin layer of the aftercare product recommended by your artist. Do not apply a thick or heavy layer.
During the first few days, avoid swimming, soaking, saunas, direct sunlight, tight clothing, picking, scratching and activities that cause excessive sweating.
DAYS 4 – 14: HEALING & PEELING
As your tattoo heals, mild itching, flaking and a thin layer of scabbing may occur. Let the skin heal naturally and continue following the instructions provided by your artist.
04 — CONTINUE GENTLE CLEANING
Wash your hands before touching the tattoo. Continue cleaning it gently with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser, following your artist’s instructions. Pat dry without rubbing.
05 — MOISTURIZE LIGHTLY
When the tattoo feels dry, apply a very thin layer of fragrance-free, water-based lotion or the aftercare product recommended by your artist. Avoid applying a thick layer.
06 — LET IT PEEL NATURALLY
Do not scratch, pick or pull at peeling skin and scabs. Allow them to come away naturally to avoid irritating or damaging the healing tattoo.
CONTINUE TO AVOID
Avoid swimming, soaking, saunas, steam rooms, direct sunlight, tight clothing and activities that cause excessive sweating until the tattoo has healed.
WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL HELP
Some redness, tenderness and mild swelling can occur during early healing. However, symptoms that become stronger, spread or worsen instead of improving may require medical attention.
CONTACT A MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Seek medical advice promptly if you notice:
• Redness or swelling that is increasing or spreading
• Pain, tenderness, burning or throbbing that is becoming worse
• Skin that feels increasingly hot around the tattoo
• Yellow or green discharge, pus or an unusual smell
• Fever, chills, flu-like symptoms or feeling generally unwell
• Persistent itching, irritation or a rash that continues to worsen
SEEK EMERGENCY CARE
Seek emergency medical care immediately if you experience difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the lips, eyes or face, rapidly spreading redness, severe pain or a high fever.
OVERTHINK-INK can provide general tattoo aftercare guidance but cannot diagnose or treat infections or allergic reactions. Do not use antibiotic creams unless instructed by a qualified medical professional.
LONG-TERM TATTOO CARE
Once your tattoo has fully healed, simple everyday care can help keep the skin comfortable and the tattoo looking its best.
07 — PROTECT IT FROM THE SUN
Once the tattoo has completely healed, protect exposed tattooed skin with a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Reapply according to the product instructions, especially after swimming or sweating.
08 — KEEP THE SKIN MOISTURIZED
If the tattooed skin feels dry, apply a fragrance-free, water-based lotion or cream. Choose a lightweight product that feels comfortable on your skin.
09 — WATCH FOR SKIN CHANGES
Contact a qualified medical professional if you notice a persistent rash, swelling, itching, pain or any unusual change in the tattooed skin, even if the tattoo is no longer new.
QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR HEALING TATTOO?
Contact OVERTHINK-INK for general aftercare guidance. For symptoms of infection, allergic reactions or other medical concerns, contact a qualified medical professional.
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