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TATTOO AFTERCARE - THE FIRST 48 HOURS
Tips on Tattoo Care: First 48 Hours
Your tattoo is more than a cool design. It’s a permanent piece of body art. Whether it’s a small flash or a full sleeve, the first 48 hours play a huge role in how well your new tattoo holds up over time.
Your tattoo’s vibrance, sharpness, and longevity all depend on what you do immediately after leaving the session. The tattoo healing process begins the moment the needle stops. And the choices you make in the next two days set the tone for how your skin reacts to every healing stage and how your art ages.
Forget the myths and shortcuts. If you want your new tattoo to heal properly and stay bold for life, the care starts now.
Before you leave the Tattoo Shop
Tattoo aftercare doesn’t begin at home. It starts the moment your tattoer finishes the piece.
Should You Wrap Your Tattoo?
Short answer: yes (in most cases!). Wrapping helps protect your tattoo from friction and bacteria, especially in the first few hours. But there are exceptions. If you have a known skin allergy to adhesive or experience irritation from wraps, let your artist know. They may recommend a different aftercare approach. As always, follow your artist's recommendation.
Some artists advise keeping your tattoo wrapped for a few hours, while others may suggest leaving it covered overnight or up to 72 hours. The key is to follow your artist’s guidance. They know your skin and the type of work you just got.
How to Clean a New Tattoo for the First Time
When you’re ready to remove the wrap, take it slow. Start with clean hands. Let lukewarm water run over the area to help loosen the wrap before gently peeling it off in the direction of hair growth.
Once the wrap is off, give your tattoo its first real wash. Before touching the tattoo, always thoroughly wash and dry your hands. Then, run lukewarm water over the tattoo and gently lather with an antibacterial soap like Hustle Butter, Hibiclens or Dial.
Be sure to keep the following in mind when washing that new piece.
- No scrubbing.
- No sponges.
- No harsh cleansers.
Look for gentle products specifically designed for fresh tattoos.
Rinse with care, then gently pat dry using a clean paper towel (or let it air dry). Avoid bath towels - those can be linty, full of unseen bacteria, and clean behind impurities.
Once dry, apply a thin layer of tattoo balm to lock in moisture, helping the area stay hydrated. This is where the magic begins. Keeping the area hydrated during the healing process is an essential step.
Tattoo Aftercare Tips Day 1: Do’s & Don’ts
Day one is all about structure and repetition (as instructed by your artist). The tattoo aftercare instructions generally go something like this: wash gently, pat dry, apply balm, and repeat as needed.
Do:
- Keep your tattoo CLEAN! Wash your tattoo with lukewarm water and antibacterial soap.
- Let your skin air dry or blot with a clean paper towel.
- Moisturize with a thin layer of aftercare balm.
- Avoid sun exposure and dirty environments.
Don’t:
- Re-use plastic wraps and bandages.
- Expose your fresh tattoo to direct sunlight and UV rays (tanning beds included!).
- Strenuous activity/workout at the gym
- Soak it in water (no baths, hot tub or swimming)
- Wear tight clothing that could rub the tattoo.
Avoid direct sunlight to ensure your skin undergoes proper healing. And remember, no sunscreen on a healing tattoo. Sunscreen is recommended after fully healed.
The first night after getting new art can be tricky, especially if your tattoo is in a spot that touches the bed. Always start with fresh, clean sheets and wear loose clothing that won’t stick to your skin. Try to sleep in a position that doesn’t put pressure on the tattooed area.
Tattoo Aftercare Tips Day 2: Peeling, Hydration & What’s Normal
You're halfway through the first 48 hours. This is the phase where healing starts to get real: your tattoo may start flaking, itching, and show the beginning signs of peeling. Don't panic! This is totally normal.
Stick with your routine: wash your tattoo with lukewarm water, apply a thin layer of balm, and repeat.
If you've got dry skin or the tattoo feels tight, don’t panic. That’s your cue to reapply. Reach for tattoo balms made with ingredients like aloe, shea butter, and coconut oil that help maintain hydration and soothe dry skin.
Expect to see:
- Light flaking or peeling
- Minor redness
- Some soreness or tightness
These are all part of the healing process. Your skin begins doing its thing.
But here’s your line in the sand: if you notice excessive swelling, pus, sharp pain, or excess bleeding, that’s not normal. Don’t wait! Get in touch with your tattoo artist or a healthcare provider ASAP.
When in doubt, speak up. Healing should feel a little annoying, not alarming.
How to Protect a New Tattoo from Sun Exposure
Even after the first 48 hours, the healing journey is far from over. UV rays are your tattoo’s biggest enemy. Direct sunlight can fade your tattoo, dry it out, and slow down the wound healing process.
Important: Do not apply sunscreen until your tattoo is fully healed. Until then, keep it covered with loose clothing and stay in the shade.
Tattoo Aftercare Products: What to Use and When
Avoid petroleum jelly. It can trap bacteria and create an overly moist environment. Stick to trusted, tattoo-specific essentials:
- Antibacterial Foaming Tattoo Soap
- Tattoo Balm
- Daily Rejuvenating lotions (for healed tattoos only)
- SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen Lotion (for healed tattoos only)
Watch for Red Flags
Now's not the time to relax completely, though. Day two brings with it the responsibility of vigilance. Keep an eye out for any signs of infection or unusual reactions in the first 48 hours after getting a tattoo.
Some redness, a bit of swelling, and moderate discomfort are all normal. However, if you notice excessive swelling, vibrant redness, itchiness, unusual discharge, or if the area feels hot to the touch, these could be red flags.
You know your body best. If something feels wrong, do not wait to get in touch with your doctor or your artist. The sooner you speak up, the better. Early detection means you can address any issues before they become real problems.