The First 48 Hours

• Bandaging: Leave the initial wrap on for at least 2–4 hours (or up to 24 hours if your artist used a medical-grade second skin like Saniderm). [1, 2, 3, 4]

• Washing: Always wash your hands before touching the tattoo. Gently wash the area with lukewarm water and mild, unscented soap. Never use a washcloth or loofah. [1, 2, 3]

• Drying: Air dry or gently pat the area dry with a clean, single-use paper towel. [1, 2, 3]

• Moisturizing: Apply a very thin layer of ointment (like Aquaphor, A&D, or tattoo balm) so the skin can still breathe. Avoid petroleum jelly, as it can trap bacteria. [1, 2, 3, 4]

For tips on how to handle the first 48 hours of cleaning and healing:

1:25

Tattoo Aftercare: The First 48 Hours

1 year ago

 

YouTube · Richard Huard

Days 3 to 14: Peeling and Itching

• Do Not Pick: Your tattoo will likely scab, flake, and itch. Do not scratch or peel the skin. This can pull out ink and cause scarring. [1, 2, 3, 4]

• Switch Products: After 3–5 days, or once the peeling starts, switch from heavy ointment to a fragrance-free, water-based lotion (e.g., Cetaphil, Lubriderm, or CeraVe). [1, 2, 3]

• Avoid Soaking: No swimming, baths, hot tubs, or saunas until the tattoo is fully healed (typically 2 weeks). Stick to short, lukewarm showers. [1, 2, 3, 4]

For a day-by-day visual breakdown of the peeling phase and the proper way to apply lotion: