How To Care For Your New Tattoo
How to Care for Your New Tattoo
Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience, whether it’s your very first or you’re adding to your collection. To make sure your tattoo heals well and looks its best for years to come, proper aftercare is essential. At Black Hope Tattoo, we’ve put together this simple step-by-step guide to help you through the healing process.
1. Follow Your Artist’s Advice
Every tattoo is different, and each artist may recommend slightly different aftercare. Always take on board the instructions your artist gives you at the end of your session — they know what works best for their style and your skin.
2. Keep the Initial Covering On
Once your tattoo is finished, we’ll protect it with a breathable covering. Leave this on for at least 1–2 hours (or as advised by your artist). This helps shield your tattoo from bacteria, dirt, and accidental knocks straight after your session.
3. Wash Your Hands First
Before touching or cleaning your tattoo, always wash your hands thoroughly. Fresh tattoos are open wounds — clean hands mean a lower risk of infection. Keep pets and little ones away from the area too.
4. Clean Gently with Mild Soap
After removing the covering, rinse your tattoo carefully with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free soap. Use just your fingertips to clean away any plasma or excess ink. Don’t scrub or use a cloth — gentle is key.
5. Pat Dry, Don’t Rub
Dry the tattoo by patting it with a clean, soft towel or allow it to air dry. Rubbing can irritate the skin and damage the healing process.
6. Moisturise Lightly
Once dry, apply a very thin layer of a tattoo-safe balm or unscented moisturiser. Less is more — too much cream can clog the skin and cause problems with healing. Stick to 2–3 times a day for the first few weeks.
7. Choose Loose Clothing
Try to avoid tight or restrictive clothing that rubs against your tattoo. Friction can pull scabs away too soon and cause patchy healing. If your tattoo is in a spot where clothing will press against it (like ribs, hips, or ankles), opt for loose-fitting outfits whenever possible.
8. Avoid Sun, Tanning & Self-Tan Products
UV light is one of the quickest ways to fade a tattoo. Keep your fresh tattoo out of the sun, off sunbeds, and away from self-tan products while it heals. Once healed, always use a high SPF (we recommend SPF 50) to keep your ink looking fresh.
9. Skip Swimming & Baths
Showers are fine, but avoid long soaks in water for at least 2 weeks. This includes swimming pools, hot tubs, and baths. Too much water can soften scabs and damage the tattoo.
10. Expect Itching & Peeling
Healing tattoos often peel or flake — a bit like sunburn. This is normal. Don’t pick, peel, or scratch as this can pull ink out and damage the design. Instead, keep moisturising to ease any itching.
11. Take a Break from the Gym
We recommend resting for at least 2–3 days before exercising. Movement, sweating, and contact with gym equipment can irritate your tattoo or increase infection risk. Give your body a little downtime to start healing.
12. Keep an Eye Out for Infection
Some redness, tenderness, and mild swelling are expected in the first few days. But if you notice excessive redness, pus, or feel unwell, get in touch with your artist or a healthcare professional.
13. Long-Term Care
Even after healing, your tattoo will thank you for regular moisturising and sun protection. Tattoos naturally soften over time, but with the right care, you’ll keep yours looking sharp and vibrant for years.
Final Thoughts
Caring for a new tattoo is all about being clean, gentle, and consistent. Following these steps will help your tattoo heal beautifully and stay bold.
Got questions about healing or aftercare? We’re always happy to help.
📧 info@blackhopetattoo.com
Or pop into the studio for a chat with one of our artists.
