Your artist should go through aftercare with you but if you’ve forgotten or are unsure, here’s a handy guide to all things aftercare!
Why is aftercare important?
A healing tattoo is an open wound. Proper aftercare prevents irritation and soothes the healing area but it also contributes to how your tattoo will look long term. Aftercare cream is used to hydrate the skin and lock in moisture.
How long does a tattoo take to heal?
The epidermis takes between 2-4 weeks to heal, but it can take as long as 4-6 months for the top layer of the dermis to heal fully. We recommend allowing 2-4 weeks for the initial healing period.
What does a healing tattoo look like?
A healing tattoo will look different depending on what stage of healing you’re in.
“ I’ve had my first tattoo and now I don’t know what to do! ”
Days 1-3
During the days immediately after being tattooed you may experience redness and swelling. Your tattoo may also ooze blood or ink. This is normal for the first few days but if these symptoms persist, get in touch with your artist and/or your GP.
How do I correctly remove Second Skin/Dermalize/Saniderm?
Second Skin/Dermalize/Saniderm etc. are often used by tattoo artists as a covering for your tattoo once it’s completed. It’s a breathable, thin, waterproof plastic covering that keeps bacteria from getting into your tattoo but still allows enough oxygen for it to heal.
For easiest and safest removal we recommend running it under warm water in the shower to soften the adhesive and avoid dislodging any scabs that aren’t ready to come off yet.
How do I clean my tattoo?
We suggest using a fragrance-free soap with natural ingredients to avoid irritation.
KHO’s Aftercare Wash is the perfect remedy for fresh tattoos. It’s fragrance-free, hypoallergenic and contains active ingredients such as roman chamomile and organic oat extract to rejuvenate your skin. You can find out more about KHO via Instagram.
Is scabbing normal?
Some scabbing is normal in a healing tattoo - everyone’s skin reacts to the healing process differently. It is perfectly normal for darker areas of a tattoo to scab slightly more - this is because the skin here has been more saturated with the ink and it may take longer to heal. Excess scabbing could be cause for concern so if you are worried about how your tattoo looks, get in touch with your artist and they’ll be able to advise you.
What should I use to moisturise my tattoo?
Tattoos are open wounds, so choosing a moisturiser that’s fragrance-free and contains natural ingredients ensures the best healing. Don’t over-saturate the tattoo in cream while it heals as this can cause infections or the tattoo to not heal correctly. We recommend using a cream 1-2 times daily for best results.
The KHO Cream retains moisture and protects the skin barrier with the help of active ingredients such as provitamin B5 and vitamin E. With natural sources of antioxidants it repairs and replenishes your skin’s healthy aesthetic.
What are the signs of a tattoo infection?
Redness and mild irritation are normal when healing a tattoo so it can be difficult to tell if you have an infection.
Days 4-14
This is considered the ‘itchy stage’. During this period it is normal to experience flaking and itching. Avoid itching or picking at the skin or any scabs as this will affect how your tattoo heals. To reduce the itchiness it is important to start moisturising during this stage.
Days 15-28
By now the tattoo should appear healed. There may be flaky skin left but it will be minimal. The tattoo will still look ‘fresh’ but will settle and lighten over time.
If you’re experiencing any of the following, your tattoo could be infected:
Excessive redness or discoloration
Blisters on the skin that ooze pus
Open sores
Pain that seems to be getting worse
Your skin feels warm to the touch on and around the tattoo
If you experience any of the following general signs of infection, get in touch with your GP immediately:
Fever
Chills and shivering
Sweating
Vomiting
Weakness
Drowsiness
If you’re unsure about how your tattoo looks,reach out to your artist with pictures of how it’s healing. They’ll be able to advise you further.
When can I go swimming/in the sun/submerge the tattoo/exercise?
To avoid irritation, affecting the healing process or causing an infection, we recommend waiting 2-4 weeks before exposing your tattoo to direct sunlight, swimming or submerging the tattoo or partaking in any contact-related exercise where bacteria might get into the tattooed area.
