Your tattoo doesn’t end at the studio it begins there. Proper aftercare is essential to protect your skin, preserve the quality of your tattoo, and ensure the best possible healing result. Follow these steps carefully and give your new ink the attention it deserves.
AFTERCARE
Healing is a natural process, and your tattoo will go through different stages. Don’t worry—this is completely normal.
WHAT TO EXPECT
HEAL YOUR INK RIGHT
Taking care of your tattoo is just as important as getting it done. Proper aftercare ensures your ink heals clean, stays vibrant, and lasts for years to come. Follow the essential steps below to protect your skin and get the best results.
PROTECT YOUR INK
Your tattoo is a lifelong piece of art—taking proper care of it ensures it heals smoothly and keeps its bold look. Follow the right aftercare routine to maintain clarity, color, and detail.
HEAL YOUR INK RIGHT
Taking care of your tattoo is just as important as getting it done. Proper aftercare ensures your ink heals clean, stays vibrant, and lasts for years to come. Follow the essential steps below to protect your skin and get the best results.
Proper aftercare is the foundation of a healthy, long-lasting tattoo. Simple but consistent steps like cleaning, drying, and moisturizing play a crucial role in preserving the clarity, color, and detail of your design.
ESSENTIAL AFTERCARE PRACTICES THAT PROTECT YOUR TATTOO
Step One
Before you leave the studio, your artist will cover your new tattoo with cling film. This should be removed after 2 - 4 hours. Wash your tattoo in cold water with a non-fragrant antibacterial soap. Use your hands (not a wash cloth) and gently remove all traces of blood to prevent a scab forming. Do not re-bandage your tattoo.
Step Two
Pat your tattoo dry with a clean towel and leave it for 30 minutes to an hour until the skin feels tight and dry. It is important to let your tattoo breathe before it enters the peeling stage. We recommend you wash your tattoo 2 -3 times a day.
Step Three
Apply your aftercare balm for up to 14 days. We recommend Dr Pickles Tattoo Aftercare Balm (available for purchase in the studio). Apply a thin layer after you wash your tattoo. Continue to wash and apply your aftercare balm as directed until the tattoo is healed.
Your tattoo is likely to peel and coloured flakes of skin will fall off. DO NOT pull off the flakes or else you might pull the ink out. Let these flakes fall off on their own. This will likely happen in the first 4 - 7 days and then again a second time within two weeks.
It takes 4 - 6 weeks for the tattoo to fully heal.
TATTOO HEALING & AFTERCARE GUIDE
TIPS
01: DO NOT scratch or pick off the scabs or flakes. This can cause a serious infection and can create scars.
02: DO NOT go swimming until the tattoo has finished scabbing and flaking and keep it as clean and dry as possible.
03: AVOID direct sunlight as much as possible until your tattoo has completely healed.
If you have any questions regarding the aftercare and healing of your tattoo, please do not hesitate to give us a call on (07) 3263 6574 or send us an email at shinkotattoo@gmail.com.