The real work begins after you get new ink. But a great tattoo aftercare routine isn’t complicated. The trick is to be consistent and to follow all instructions given to you by your artist (not your friends, family, and Google search history).
What you do in the first few weeks after getting a new tattoo will determine how your art looks for the rest of your life. Here’s exactly what to do and when.
Step One: L.I.T.H.A
L.I.T.H.A stands for “leave it the hell alone,” and that’s exactly where your tattoo aftercare routine should start. Your artist will wrap your ink with a protective gauze or plastic before you walk out the door. Respect that covering.
The wrap around your tattoo is there to protect an open wound from bacteria, friction, and anything else your skin comes in contact with while healing. Leave it alone for at least 3 hours, then remove it and let the area breathe for 30 minutes to an hour before moving on to the next step.
Step Two: The First Wash
This one might sting a little, and that’s okay. The sensitivity will decrease with each passing day as long as you properly care for your tattoo. Start with clean hands and use warm water to cleanse the area. Then follow that with a light application of antibacterial soap to remove any microscopic debris and protect your open wound.
Try to use only your fingertips, and never use a washcloth or loofah to wash a new tattoo. Both options can harbor bacteria and irritate sensitive skin further. When you’re done, gently pat the area with a clean paper towel, then move on.
Step Three: Make It Moist
Moisturizing is a critical part of proper tattoo aftercare, but it’s important not to go overboard. Only use a thin layer of unscented, water-based moisturizer, such as Aquaphor, to keep the skin supple as it replenishes. A thick coat of lotion or ointment can suffocate the skin, slow the healing process, and trap bacteria.
Less is more when it comes to moisturizing new tattoos. You want just enough to keep the skin from drying out, but not enough to create a film on the surface. Ask your tattoo artist for product recommendations, then repeat the wash-dry-moisturize cycle for at least a week before changing your routine.
Step Four: Use Protection
Your aftercare routine shouldn’t stop after you apply lotion. How you treat your tattoo throughout the day also matters. Here are some tips to keep your piece protected:
- Keep it out of the sun since UV rays break down fresh ink fast.
- Use a high-quality sunscreen on your tattoo to prevent fading.
- Stay out of standing water until your tattoo is fully healed.
- Wear loose-fitting clothes on areas that touch your ink to stop rubbing.
- Always wash your hands before touching any new tattoo.
Daily Tattoo Aftercare Overview
To review, this is what your daily routine should look like for at least a week after getting a new tattoo:
Morning
Wash gently with fragrance-free antibacterial soap and lukewarm water. Pat dry. Apply a thin layer of unscented moisturizer.
Midday
If the skin feels tight or dry, apply another light layer of moisturizer—no need to wash again unless the area feels dirty or sweaty.
Night
Wash again, pat dry, moisturize, and let it breathe before covering up for sleep. Wear loose clothing or use clean, breathable bedding over the area.
Signs Your Routine Isn’t Working
Good tattoo aftercare is consistent aftercare. So, if you’re cutting corners, your tattoo will show it. Watch for signs that you’re making a mistake, over/underapplying moisturizer, or causing damage to your ink.
- Thick, heavy scabbing
- Blistering or spreading redness around the tattoo edges
- Large patches of color lifting or fading during healing
- A greasy, bumpy texture that won’t resolve
- Discharge that isn’t clear or a smell coming from the tattoo
Have questions about your specific tattoo or skin type? Contact Venom Ink, and we’ll walk you through it.