How long does a tattoo take to heal?

The outer layer of skin heals in 2-3 weeks, but complete healing of all skin layers takes 4-6 weeks. Larger tattoos may take longer.

Can I shower with a new tattoo?

Yes. Keep showers short and avoid direct water pressure on the tattoo. Do not soak in baths, pools, or hot tubs for at least 2-3 weeks.

When can I expose my tattoo to the sun?

Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 2-3 weeks while healing. After healing, always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen to protect your tattoo from fading.

Is it normal for my tattoo to peel?

Yes. Peeling typically starts around days 3-7 and is normal. The flakes may contain ink color but you are not losing your tattoo. Do not pick at the peeling skin.

Can I work out with a new tattoo?

Wait at least 1-2 weeks before intense exercise. Sweat can introduce bacteria and irritate healing skin. Light walks are fine.

How should I sleep with a new tattoo?

Sleep on clean sheets and avoid lying directly on the tattoo. Use old sheets or a clean towel as some ink or fluid may transfer overnight.

What moisturizer should I use?

Use Aquaphor for the first 2-3 days, then switch to a fragrance-free lotion like Lubriderm, CeraVe, or Eucerin. Avoid products with fragrance, alcohol, or heavy petroleum after day 3.

Do you offer free touch-ups?

Yes. We offer complimentary touch-ups within 90 days of your original session. Contact us to schedule once your tattoo is fully healed (6+ weeks).

TattooAftercare Guide

Select your bandage type below to get started.

Get Started→Common QuestionsFAQ

Day-by-Day Aftercare Instructions

Not sure which you have? Traditional = plastic wrap or gauze. Saniderm = clear adhesive film. If unsure, call us at (801) 590-9444.

First Wash

0-4 hours

Remove bandage after 2-4 hours
Wash hands thoroughly before touching tattoo
Gently wash with lukewarm water and fragrance-free antibacterial soap (Dial Gold, Dr. Bronner's unscented)
Pat dry with a clean paper towel, not cloth towels
Let air dry for 10-15 minutes, then apply a thin layer of Aquaphor or artist-recommended ointment

Days 1-3

Daily routine

Wash 2-3 times daily with the same fragrance-free soap
Apply a thin layer of Aquaphor after each wash (less is more)
Sleep on clean sheets and avoid lying directly on the tattoo
Wear loose-fitting clothing over the area
Light oozing and redness are normal during this phase

Days 4-14

Peeling phase

Switch from Aquaphor to a fragrance-free lotion (Lubriderm, CeraVe, or Eucerin)
Your tattoo will start to peel and flake. This is normal, do NOT pick or scratch
Continue washing 2-3 times daily
Itching is common. Pat gently or apply lotion to relieve it
Avoid swimming, hot tubs, and soaking in water

Weeks 2-4

Maturation

Reduce washing to 1-2 times daily as peeling subsides
Keep the area moisturized with fragrance-free lotion
Tattoo may look cloudy or dull. Color returns as deeper skin heals
Avoid direct sun exposure; no sunscreen on unhealed skin
Resume light exercise once peeling has stopped

Fully Healed

4+ weeks

Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen whenever your tattoo is exposed to sun
Moisturize regularly to keep colors from fading
Contact the shop if you need a touch-up. We offer free touch-ups within 90 days

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What’s Normal During Healing

These stages are normal. Here’s what to expect.

🔴

Redness & Swelling

Days 1-3

The area around your tattoo may be red, warm, and slightly swollen. This should decrease steadily each day.

💧

Oozing & Plasma

Days 1-2

Clear or slightly colored fluid is normal. Gently wash it off during your cleaning routine.

🩹

Peeling & Flaking

Days 4-10

Your skin will peel like a sunburn. Flakes may contain ink color. This does not mean you are losing your tattoo.

✋

Itching

Days 5-14

Itching is a sign of healing. Pat the area gently or apply moisturizer for relief. Never scratch.

🌫️

Cloudy Appearance

Weeks 2-4

A milky layer forms over the tattoo as deeper skin heals. Your colors will return to full vibrancy once this phase passes.

What is NOT Normal

Increasing redness or swelling after day 3
Pus with a foul odor (yellow or green discharge)
Fever, chills, or red streaks radiating from the tattoo
Pain that gets worse instead of better

If you notice any of these signs, see our warning signs section or contact a healthcare professional.

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Tattoo Aftercare FAQ

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Warning Signs & What to Avoid

When to Seek Help

Signs of Infection

Red streaking extending from the tattoo
Pus discharge with foul odor (yellow or green)
Excessive swelling that worsens after 48 hours
Fever, chills, or increasing pain after day 3

Visit your doctor or urgent care clinic.

Allergic Reaction

Widespread rash beyond the tattoo area
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Severe swelling of face, lips, or tongue
Rapid heartbeat or dizziness

Call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately.

🚨 Emergency (911):Difficulty breathing, severe face/throat swelling

🏥 Doctor / Urgent Care:Signs of infection, unusual symptoms, worsening pain

Us - (801) 590-9444:Aftercare questions, healing concerns, touch-ups

What NOT to Do

Picking or Scratching

Causes scarring, infection, and color loss

Entire healing process

Swimming or Soaking

Bacteria in water can cause infections

First 2-3 weeks

Direct Sun Exposure

UV rays fade colors and damage healing skin

First 2-3 weeks, then SPF 30+

Tight Clothing

Irritates healing skin and sticks to the tattoo

First 1-2 weeks

Excessive Alcohol

Thins blood and interferes with healing

First week

Heavy Exercise

Sweat introduces bacteria to the area

First 1-2 weeks

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Have Questions?

Free touch-ups within 90 days of your session. Once fully healed (6+ weeks), call or message us to schedule.

For medical concerns, please consult a healthcare professional.

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