Tattoo Aftercare

Tips for Maintaining Your New Ink

Getting a new tattoo is an exciting experience, and proper aftercare is essential to ensure your ink heals beautifully and lasts a lifetime. At Eastside Ink Tattoo Studio, we want to ensure that you have all the information you need to take care of your new tattoo. Follow these tips to maintain your tattoo’s vibrancy and prevent complications.

Immediate Aftercare

1. Leave the Bandage On

   • Your artist will cover your new tattoo with a bandage or plastic wrap. Keep this on for the first 2-4 hours to protect the fresh ink from bacteria and contaminants.

2. Wash Your Hands

   • Before touching your tattoo, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent infection.

3. Clean the Tattoo

   • After removing the bandage, gently wash your tattoo with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Avoid using a washcloth or sponge, as these can be too abrasive.

4. Pat Dry

   • Use a clean paper towel to gently pat the tattoo dry. Do not rub, as this can irritate the skin.

Ongoing Care

1. Apply a Thin Layer of Moisturiser

   • After cleaning, apply a thin layer of a tattoo-specific moisturiser or a fragrance-free lotion. Do this 2-3 times a day to keep the skin hydrated and prevent scabbing.

2. Avoid Soaking

   • Keep your tattoo out of water for the first two weeks. Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, and long baths. Showers are fine, but try to keep the tattoo out of direct water flow.

3. Wear Loose Clothing

   • Wear loose, breathable clothing over your tattoo to avoid irritation and rubbing against the skin. Tight clothes can hinder the healing process.

4. Stay Out of the Sun

   • Protect your tattoo from direct sunlight, as UV rays can cause the ink to fade. Once healed, always apply a high-SPF sunscreen to the tattoo when exposed to the sun.

5. Avoid Picking or Scratching

   • As your tattoo heals, it may scab or peel. Resist the urge to pick or scratch, as this can cause scarring and ink loss.

Long-Term Care

1. Moisturise Regularly

   • Keep your tattoo moisturised even after it has healed to maintain the vibrancy of the ink. Use a good quality lotion or tattoo balm.

2. Protect from Sunlight

   • Continue to protect your tattoo from the sun by applying sunscreen with at least SPF 30. This helps to prevent fading and keeps the colours sharp.

3. Stay Hydrated and Healthy

   • Keeping your skin healthy and hydrated from the inside out can benefit the longevity of your tattoo. Drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet.

Signs of Infection

While proper aftercare greatly reduces the risk of infection, it’s important to recognise the signs. If you notice excessive redness, swelling, pus, or a foul smell coming from the tattoo, contact your tattoo artist or a medical professional immediately. Early intervention can prevent serious complications.

By following these aftercare tips, you can ensure that your new tattoo heals properly and remains a stunning piece of art for years to come. At Eastside Ink Tattoo Studio, we are committed to providing you with the best possible tattoo experience, from the initial design to the final aftercare. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.