Tattoo Aftercare Instructions (Easy Step-by-Step)

First 24 Hours

•  Keep the wrap on for a a full 24 hours. Do not remove it early.

Remove the Wrap 1 to 4 days after application

1.  Go in the bath or  shower.

2.  Use  gentle soap and hot water to loosen and remove the wrap (this makes it much easier).

3.  Gently wash off all the old plasma/fluid.

4.  Pat the tattoo dry with a clean towel (do not rub).

5.  Apply a thin layer of the ointment

Daily Care for the Next 7 Days

•  Wash the tattoo 2 times per day (for example: morning and night).

•  Use a small amount of soap and water with clean hands , rub plasma/fluid off in a circular motion.

•  After washing, gently pat the tattoo dry.

•  Apply a thin layer of the recommended ointment.

Extra Tip:

You can apply the ointment up to 3 times a day if your skin feels dry, but only wash it 2 times a day.

Quick Summary

•   Leave wrap on  approx 1 to 4 days → Remove in shower → Clean & ointment.

•  Days after wrap comes off : Wash 2× daily with mild soap → Pat dry → light coat of ointment.

•  Optional: Extra ointment application (max 3× total per day).

Follow these steps carefully to help your tattoo heal well. Let us know if you have any questions!

Tattoo Aftercare: Important DON’Ts

Protect your new tattoo and get the best possible heal by following these rules:

•  Don’t touch or pick at your healing tattoo. Keep your hands off — touching can introduce bacteria and picking or peeling can pull out ink and cause scarring.

•  Don’t prolong exposure to direct sunlight. Keep your fresh tattoo completely covered or out of the sun for at least 2–3 weeks. UV rays can fade the ink and damage healing skin.

•  Don’t go swimming. Avoid pools, hot tubs, oceans, lakes, or any natural bodies of water until the tattoo is fully healed (usually 3–4 weeks).

•  Don’t wear tight or rough clothing over the tattoo. Friction can irritate the area and slow healing.

•  Don’t soak the tattoo in baths or let the shower stream hit it directly for long periods.

•  Don’t apply thick layers of ointment (especially petroleum-based products like Vaseline) after the first few days — it can trap moisture and cause ink loss.

•  Don’t use scented lotions, alcohol, or harsh soaps on the tattoo.

•  Don’t scratch or itch the area — slap or gently pat if needed.

•  Don’t re-bandage the tattoo after the first 24–48 hours unless instructed by me.

Pro Tip: Always wash your hands before touching the tattoo and follow the aftercare instructions I give you.

Following these DON’Ts will help your tattoo heal cleanly, keep the colors vibrant, and look its best long-term.

Have questions about aftercare? Ask during your consultation or send me a message!

Peter Koskela