Aftercare
✹
Aftercare ✹
Congratulations on your new tattoo!
Proper aftercare is essential for achieving the best possible healed result. Please read the instructions below carefully and follow them throughout the healing process.
Removing the Protective Covering
If your tattoo is covered with cling film
You may remove the cling film after approximately 3 to 5 hours.
If your tattoo is covered with second skin
Leave the second skin on for 2 to 5 days.
When it’s time to remove it, carefully peel it away. If the adhesive is difficult to remove, allow warm water to run over it in the shower until it loosens naturally.
The First Wash
Once the tattoo is uncovered:
• Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the tattoo
• Gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water
and a mild, fragrance-free soap
• Pat the tattoo dry using a clean paper towel
• Never rub the tattoo dry
For the first few days, wash the tattoo twice daily.
Applying Aftercare Cream
Once the tattoo has started healing, begin applying a thin layer of aftercare cream.
Apply the cream 2 to 3 times per day.
Less is more — your tattoo should never feel greasy or heavily coated. Applying too much cream can slow down the healing process.
I will recommend the most suitable aftercare product during your appointment.
During the Healing Process
For the best possible healed result:
• Touch the tattoo as little as possible
• Always wash your hands before caring for your tattoo
• Wear clean, loose-fitting clothing whenever possible
• Do not scratch, pick, or peel the tattoo when it starts itching or flaking
• Do not cover the tattoo with plasters or bandages
• Avoid anything that may irritate the healing skin
A healing tattoo may feel dry, itchy, or slightly flaky. This is completely normal.
Showering
You may shower normally with your tattoo.
Please avoid:
• Very hot showers
• Long showers
• Excessive soaking of the tattoo
Sun Exposure
For the first 14 days:
• Avoid direct sunlight on the tattoo (unless you’re using a spf tattoo cream)
• Avoid tanning beds entirely
Even after healing, tattooed skin remains more sensitive to UV exposure.
To keep your tattoo looking its best for years to come, always apply sunscreen when your tattoo is exposed to sunlight.
Swimming, Sauna & Baths
For at least 14 days, avoid:
• Swimming pools
• Hot tubs
• Bubble baths
• Saunas
• Steam rooms
Your tattoo should not be submerged in water during the healing process.
Healing Time
If properly cared for:
• The outer layer of skin typically heals within approximately 2 weeks
• Deeper healing beneath the skin can take up to 2 months
Fine line tattoos often appear healed slightly faster, but proper aftercare remains important throughout the healing process.
my recommended products
Creams:
Balm Tattoo Vegan Cream
This is my personal favourite aftercare cream.
It has a lightweight consistency that allows the skin to breathe more comfortably than many thicker barrier creams. I’ve personally healed many of my own tattoos using this product and highly recommend it.
Available for purchase in the studio after your appointment.
Balm Tattoo Vegan Sunblock SPF50
Perfect for protecting your tattoo during sunny weather.
Unlike many regular sunscreens, this product is specifically designed for tattooed skin.
Available in the studio.
Balm Tattoo Vegan Wash Gel
A gentle cleansing wash suitable for cleaning your tattoo during the healing process.
Available in the studio.
washing gels:
Unicura Balans Hand Soap
A suitable fragrance-free soap option that can be purchased from Kruidvat or Etos.
Bepanthen Tattoo Cream
Many tattoo artists recommend Bepanthen Tattoo Cream and it is perfectly safe to use.
Personally, it is not my preferred option because it is a thicker barrier cream and can sometimes feel heavy on freshly tattooed skin.
If you choose to use Bepanthen:
• Apply only a very thin layer
• Never over-apply the product
• Warming the tube slightly under warm water beforehand can help create a thinner consistency
Available at Kruidvat and Etos.
ANOTHER OPTION:
Touch-Ups
Touch-ups for tattoos completed by me are available at the following rates:
• €20 within 4 months of your appointment
• €50 after 4 months
If you’re unsure whether your tattoo requires a touch-up, feel free to send me a clear healed photo and I’ll be happy to advise you.
Please note that finger tattoos are tattooed at your own risk and often require touch-ups due to the nature of the skin in that area.
Questions?
If you have any concerns during the healing process or are unsure whether something is healing normally, please don’t hesitate to contact me via WhatsApp.
I’m always happy to help ♡