How to heal your new tattoo
- tiggytattoos
- Sep 21, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 25, 2025
Getting a new tattoo is well exciting, but proper aftercare is crucial to ensure it heals well and stays vibrant for years to come. Which is why this is the most asked question in tattooing 'How do I heal my tattoo?'
The First 24-48 Hours
Your tattoo is essentially an open wound, so treating it with care is essential:
Leave the initial wrap on for a few hours - Usually until you get home from your appointment or maybe until just before you go to bed.
Once the wrap has been removed, gently wash your tattoo using your clean, washed hands with lukewarm water and teeny pea sized amount of mild, fragrance-free soap.
Do not submerge your tattoo in a bath (or any bodies of water). Do not soak it for an excessively long time.
Pat dry with a clean paper towel - No bath towels, and don’t rub it! Pat it gently. Pat. Pat. Pat.
It's usually best to re-wrap your tattoo in clingfilm overnight to prevent any nasties getting into your tattoo from your sheets. Only re-wrap when it's completely dry, we don't want to trap moisture under there.
I personally wrap my tattoos for a few days after as I find it prevents any heavy scabbing from forming - I change the wrap morning and night, washing it and drying it thoroughly before each re-wrap.
This wrapping method isn't always suitable for everyone though. If any irritation occurs, stop wrapping and switch to a good aftercare balm instead. Topping up with a light, thin layer of cream any time the tattoo feels a bit dry. Little and often is the best way.
When it starts to become dry and flaky - Stop wrapping and apply a thin layer of recommended aftercare cream - We recommend Whitfields Aftercare Balm or a simple fragrance free coco butter like Aveeno or Palmers.
Healing Process: What to Expect
Days 1-3: Your tattoo may feel sore, slightly swollen, and even leak a bit of plasma - this is normal. Do not fret!
Days 4-7: It might start to feel dry, and light peeling may begin. Do not pick at it!
Days 7-14: The tattoo will continue peeling and may feel itchy. Keep moisturising little and often, but resist scratching.
Weeks 3-4: Your tattoo should look mostly healed, it may still look a bit shiny for a while, keep up with a good tattoo balm or coco butter to maintain vibrancy.
Key Aftercare Tips
✅ Keep It Clean & Moisturised - Wash your tattoo gently twice a day
✅ When it starts to dry out, apply a thin layer of unscented tattoo aftercare such as Whitfields Aftercare Balm. ✅ Wear Loose Clothing - Tight clothes can rub against your healing tattoo, causing irritation. Soft, breathable fabrics are best.
✅ Stay Hydrated & Eat Well - Your body heals best when you’re drinking enough water and getting proper nutrients!
✅ Use SPF - But only when the tattoo has FULLY healed. Before then - just keep it covered.
❌ Don’t add any creams while it is still goopy with plasma.
❌ Only use creams that you artist has recommended.
❌ Avoid Submerging It - No baths, swimming, or hot tubs for at least 2-3 weeks! Showers are fine, but don’t let the tattoo get wet for longer than you need to wash it.
❌ No exercise - Until it has finished peeling, avoid anything that will make you sweat.
❌ No swimming - bacteria from pools and open bodies of water may give you a serious infection,
❌ No Picking or Scratching - Peeling and flaking are normal, but picking at it can cause scarring and patchy healing.
❌ Stay away from UV - Fresh tattoos are extra sensitive to sunlight and harmful UV rays from sunbeds.
Notice something 'off' with your tattoo?
Check in with us as soon as you can, we should be able to put your mind at ease and recommend the next best steps to take to avoid anything serious.
Long-Term Tattoo Care
Once healed, keep your tattoo looking fresh by moisturising regularly, staying out of the sun or using sunscreen if you can't cover the tattoo. If you ever have concerns about healing, don’t hesitate to check in with us - We are always happy to offer advice and help where we can at Mt. Moon Tattoo.
A little care goes a long way in making sure your tattoo stays as bold and beautiful as the day you got it. Happy healing! ✨
