Everything you need to know before and after your tattoo.
Tattoo Care 101: Preperation, Numbing & Aftercare Info
Using Numbing Cream
Important Notes
- Choose a tattoo-safe numbing cream (check with us if unsure)
- Do a patch test 24 hours before to rule out allergies.
- Numbing cream only lasts for the first part of your tattoo, it will wear off during the session.
- Overuse can make skin spongy or irritated. Follow the instructions on the tube.
- Always tell your artist if you’ve applied numbing cream.
- Over the counter cream from the chemist will not numb the skin efficiently, so don't waste your money.
Application Steps
- Clean the skin with soap and water. Dry completely.
- Apply a thick layer of numbing cream (do not rub it in like moisturiser).
- Cover with plastic wrap to seal it in and activate it.
- Leave it on for 60–90 minutes before your appointment.
- Just before we start tattooing, we’ll remove the cream, clean the area, and get going.
Tattoo Aftercare
Checklist
- Acquire an artist recommended aftercare product. (NO BEPANTHEN!)
- Keep the glad wrap on for 1 to 3 hours
- Gently wash the tattoo with warm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap and pat dry with clean paper towel
- After 24 hours apply a thin layer of tattoo cream recommended by your artist once a day
- Wear clean, loose fitting clothing over the tattoo to allow it to breathe
- Do not swim, soak, sunbathe, tan, rub, pick or scratch at the tattoo
- If any problems arise contact your artist and seek medical advice immediately
- Once healed use sunscreen and moisturise regularly to avoid your tattoo fading
First 24 Hours
Your tattoo artist has covered your new tattoo to protect it from bacteria and irritants.
- Keep the wrap on for 1 to 3 hours unless otherwise advised by your tattoo artist.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your tattoo.
- Carefully remove the bandage after the recommended time.
- Gently wash the tattoo with clean, warm running water using a mild, fragrance-free liquid soap.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all ointment, blood, and plasma.
- Pat dry with a clean paper towel or allow it to air dry. Do not rub the area.
- Do not apply tattoo aftercare cream yet.
First 2 Weeks
- Apply aftercare cream once a day, or whenever the skin feels dry. Massage it in well using freshly cleaned hands.
- Keep the tattoo only very slightly moist; excessive moisture can hinder healing
- After the initial bleeding has stopped, do not reapply bandage unless advised by your tattoo artist.
- Wear clean, loose-fitting clothing over the tattoo to allow it to breathe. Avoid tight or dirty clothing that may rub against or irritate the tattooed area.
Long Term Care
Once healed, always apply a high SPF sunscreen to your tattoo when exposed to the sun to prevent fading.
Moisturize your tattoo regularly to maintain the vibrancy and longevity of your tattoo.
If you are concerned please reach out immediately and contact a healthcare professional for advice.
Which Aftercare Product To Use
Only use creams recommended by your tattoo artist.
Avoid using creams containing petroleum jelly or lanolin, such as Bepanthen & Vaseline.
You can purchase our recommended aftercare in store at Tatty Issues.
Troubleshooting
Mild redness, swelling, or tenderness is normal in the first 24–48 hours.
Contact us or see your doctor if you notice spreading redness, severe swelling, pus, or fever.
If your second-skin style film lifts or bubbles, gently remove, wash, and continue with open air healing.
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