Tattoo Aftercare Guide

Caring for Your New Tattoo at Soul Struck Tattoo

Your tattoo is a part of your story. Whether it marks a rite of passage, celebrates who you are, or is simply something you've dreamt about, we want you to heal beautifully.

Proper aftercare is one of the most important parts of getting a tattoo. Follow these simple steps to help your tattoo heal well and stay vibrant for years to come.

Remove Your Bandage

1.

Derm Shield, Saniderm, or Second Skin

Remove after about 24 hours, unless your artist gives different instructions.

The easiest way to remove it is under warm running water. Slowly stretch the bandage off, instead of pulling straight up.

Gently Wash Your Tattoo

2.

Once the bandage is removed:

  • Wash your hands first.

  • Use warm water and a gentle, fragrance-free soap.

  • Clean away any plasma, excess ink, or dried fluid using only your fingertips.

  • Rinse thoroughly.

  • Pat dry with a clean paper towel or allow it to air dry.

Avoid scrubbing or using washcloths while your tattoo is healing.

Moisturize

3.

Once your tattoo is clean and completely dry:

  • Apply a very thin layer of hypoallergenic, fragrance-free lotion.

  • Rub it in gently.

  • Your skin should feel moisturized, not greasy.

Too much lotion can slow healing, so a little goes a long way.

Continue Your Aftercare

4.

For the next 10–14 days, or until your tattoo is fully healed:

Wash - Clean your tattoo 2–4 times each day with gentle soap and water.

Moisturize - Apply a light layer of lotion whenever your tattoo feels dry.

While your tattoo heals, avoid:

  • Picking or peeling flakes

  • Scratching itchy skin

  • Swimming or soaking in water

  • Hot tubs or saunas

  • Long periods of direct sunlight

  • Tight clothing that rubs against the tattoo

  • Heavy friction or trauma to the area

Remember: flaking, peeling, and mild itching are all normal parts of healing.

Keep It Looking Great

5.

Once your tattoo has healed:

  • Keep your skin moisturized.

  • Wear sunscreen whenever your tattoo will be exposed to the sun.

  • Stay hydrated and take care of your skin.

A well-cared-for tattoo will stay brighter and healthier for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Most tattoos heal on the surface within 2–3 weeks, while the deeper layers of skin can take up to 6 weeks to fully heal.

  • Yes. Light peeling is completely normal. Let the skin come off naturally. Don't pick at it.

  • A healing tattoo often becomes itchy. Instead of scratching, gently pat the area and apply a small amount of lotion if your skin feels dry.

  • Light activity is usually fine after 24 hours, but avoid exercises that cause excessive rubbing, stretching, or sweating directly over the tattoo until it has healed. Avoid gyms and shared equipment for 1 week to minimize risk of infection.

  • No. Avoid pools, lakes, rivers, oceans, and hot tubs until your tattoo is completely healed, ideally 3-4 weeks. DermShield, Second Skin, and Saniderm are breathable bandages and will not protect your tattoo from waterborne bacteria.

  • Contact Soul Struck Tattoo or your healthcare provider if you notice:

    • Spreading redness after several days

    • Increasing pain instead of improvement

    • Thick yellow or green drainage

    • Fever or chills

    • Significant swelling that continues to worsen