Short answer: take off the film 3 hours after the tattoo is done, wash with lukewarm to cold water and Safeguard soap, and from day 3 or 4, when the dead skin starts to peel, apply a suitable cream. Keep the tattoo away from the sun and from dirt.
Every client of Gall Tattoo Studio receives these instructions printed on paper, together with the products they need. Here they are in short.
Step by step
- The film: remove it 3 hours after the tattoo is done.
- Washing: wash with lukewarm to cold water and Safeguard soap.
- Day 3 or 4: the dead skin starts to peel. This is when a suitable cream is recommended: Bepanthen ointment, or another one with calendula to soothe the skin.
- Protection: keep the tattoo away from the sun and from dirt.
Products you need
- Safeguard soap.
- Bepanthen ointment, or another cream with calendula.
What is normal in the first weeks
Itching, flaking, scabbing, a little oozing, soreness and redness are normal during the first weeks. Do not pick or scratch the scabs and flaking skin: this can pull out ink and leave a scar.
How long healing takes
The top layer of skin usually heals in about two months, but the deeper layers can take several more months. Large tattoos, and tattoos on the chest or back, usually take longer than those on the hands, wrists or arms.
What to avoid until it is healed
- Direct sun, which makes the skin sensitive and fades the ink.
- Soaking in a bath, pool or hot tub.
- Tight clothing that rubs on the tattoo. Wear loose, breathable clothes.
- Scrubbing or exfoliating the area.
When to see a doctor
Contact a doctor if you notice a fever, skin that is hot to the touch, a bad smell or heavy discharge, pain that gets worse instead of better, or redness that spreads or forms red streaks away from the tattoo. These can be signs of infection.
If something worries you
If you have a question during healing, write to us through the inquiry form. Health conditions, skin problems or medication need individual advice from a doctor.
Planning a tattoo? Read what to include in your first inquiry and see the portfolio.
Source for the general information on healing: Cleveland Clinic, tattoo aftercare.