Aftercare: the first two weeks

Days 1–3: protect the wound

Your tattoo is an open wound for the first 72 hours. Leave the second-skin film on for as long as your artist advises — usually two to four days. It will fill with a little plasma and ink; that is normal and keeps bacteria out. If the seal breaks or leaks, remove it, wash gently and switch to the open-heal routine below.

Days 4–7: wash and breathe

Wash twice daily with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap, using clean fingertips only — no washcloths, no scrubbing. Pat dry with a fresh paper towel, never a bath towel. Apply a rice-grain amount of the aftercare balm we give you; the skin should look satin, never greasy. Tightness, light flaking and itching all mean healing is on track.

Days 8–14: moisturise and wait

Flaking gives way to a milky, slightly dull layer — new skin forming over the ink. Keep moisturising once or twice a day and do not pick, scratch or shave the area. Colour may look muted under the new skin; it sharpens over the following month as the layers settle.

What to avoid for two weeks

• Swimming pools, the sea, saunas and long baths — showers are fine.
• Direct sun and tanning beds on the fresh piece.
• Gym contact, tight synthetic clothing rubbing the area, and sharing towels.
• Alcohol-heavy skincare, exfoliants and scented lotions on the tattoo.

When to message us

Spreading redness, heat, swelling that worsens after day three, or fever — message the studio the same day with a clear photo. For anything else, from scab anxiety to moisturiser questions, your artist answers during studio hours. Touch-ups within the first year are assessed free of charge.