Congratulations on your new tattoo! To ensure it heals quickly and smoothly, please follow my recommendations. These guidelines are tailored specifically to my working style. If you got tattooed by another artist, it is important to follow their specific instructions.

❌ What NOT to do:

  • Do not scratch, pick, or peel off any scabs.
  • Avoid working out or playing sports for at least 7–10 days — sweat and friction impair the healing process.
  • Do not swim in baths, pools, or the sea (for at least 2 weeks). Showers are fine, but avoid soaking or steaming the tattoo.
  • When healing with film (Second Skin): try not to get the film excessively wet.
  • Do not sunbathe or use tanning beds (until fully healed, at least one month).
  • Avoid wearing tight or synthetic clothing that could rub against the tattoo.
  • If fluid bubbles form under the film, do not puncture or squeeze them — simply wait until it is time to remove the film.
  • On rare occasions, an allergic reaction to the adhesive may occur (most commonly in areas with sensitive skin, such as near the armpits). If you notice redness around the edges of the film, remove it immediately and switch to film-free care.

Option 1: Care with Film (Second Skin)

  1. The artist will apply a protective film for 3–4 days — do not remove it earlier.
  2. If the film peels off slightly at the edges but the tattoo is still completely covered, secure the loose edge with medical tape.
  3. If the film peels off completely before the scheduled time or exposes any part of the tattoo, remove it entirely and follow the film-free care instructions.
  4. After 3–4 days, remove the film. It is easiest to do this under warm (not hot!) running water.
  5. Gently wash the tattoo with mild soap under lukewarm running water.
  6. Dry the tattoo with a clean paper towel by gently dabbing it (do not rub!).
  7. Apply a thin layer of Bepanthen baby ointment.

Option 2: Care without Film

  1. The artist applied a bandage — remove it no later than 2–3 hours after the session.
  2. Immediately after removing the bandage, wash the tattoo under lukewarm running water with mild soap.
  3. Dry with a clean paper towel by gently dabbing it.
  4. Apply a thin layer of healing ointment (I recommend Bepanthen baby ointment). If your tattoo is not weeping/bleeding, I recommend not applying any creams or ointments for the first 2 days — just wash it with soap and dry it well.
  5. Wash the tattoo at least 3–4 times a day during the first 2 days; after that, once a day is sufficient.
  6. Apply the ointment 1–2 times a day (if using cream, 3–4 times a day). You can stop using creams and ointments on the 4th day.

Compress / Bandaging Rules: If the tattoo is not weeping and you do not have pets or children at home, you can leave it uncovered indoors. I recommend using a bandage only if your tattoo comes into contact with clothing, when leaving the house, or while sleeping during the first 2–3 days. Disposable baby changing pads from the pharmacy work great for this purpose.

Securing the Pad:

  • You can secure it with medical tape, but be careful as it may cause irritation for some people.
  • It is better to use a cohesive bandage wrap, without pulling it too tight.

IMPORTANT! Do not let the tattoo dry out or crack. If you feel the tattoo is tight or pulling, wash it and apply a thin layer of cream or ointment (within the limits described above).

Overall Healing Period: The top layer of skin heals in 7–14 days. Complete skin recovery takes about a month.

If you experience severe redness, swelling, pus, or a fever, contact a doctor immediately.

Follow these guidelines, and your tattoo will remain vibrant and beautiful for years to come!