Tattoo Aftercare

1. I

   Step 1. Healing method: film or absorbent pads?

   A tattoo can heal in several ways — I recommend two: protective film or ointment + absorbent pads. We choose the optimal option together during the session based on a few factors.

   If the tattoo is large or has dense saturation and heavy lymph fluid is expected — pads are better. They absorb fluid and excess ink. Pads are also the better choice in extreme heat, when film may not adhere well.

2. II

   Step 2. Protective film — when and how

   Film is preferable when the tattoo isn't very large and pigmentation isn't too dense. Aftercare with film is much simpler — the first few days you do nothing, just leave it in place.

   TipAfter removing the film: use a panthenol-based healing ointment for a while — it speeds up recovery and reduces flaking.
3. III

   Step 3. Safety during healing

   While the tattoo is still fresh and scabs haven't peeled off yet — avoid places with elevated infection risk:

   • Sauna / steam room
   • Swimming pool
   • Tanning bed
   • Gym
   • Beach

   Warning

   Beach warning: even if you don't plan to swim — beach sand carries many infection sources and can get into fresh skin.
4. IV

   Step 4. Side effects — what's normal

   A tattoo means placing pigment directly into the upper dermis. It's a foreign substance the skin needs time to adapt to. Your immune system may react in various ways during healing.

   Normal reactions: swelling in the tattoo area, muscle soreness, slight temperature rise (up to 37–37.5°C, sometimes higher for large tattoos near lymph nodes), itching, irritation around the tattoo in the first weeks.

   Warning

   Recovery tips: don't overwork yourself, avoid alcohol and other harmful substances — this helps your body cope faster. These reactions mostly appear with large works of 3–4 hours or more.
5. V

   Step 5. Long-term care — months 1–3

   After healing, the top layer of skin (the epidermis — usually just 0.05–0.2 mm, thicker on palms and soles) grows back over the pigment. It has its own colour and structure. The epidermis contains melanocytes — cells responsible for skin pigmentation.

   The darker your skin tone, the more warm pigment "filters" through the tattoo — the colour may differ from the original. This is worth considering when choosing colours — I'll advise you as an artist.

6. VI

   Step 6. Moisturisation and SPF protection

   Pigment shows worse through dry, flaky skin. So moisturise regularly, exfoliate gently, and keep up consistent care — the tattoo will look brighter.

   EssentialSun protection: in summer, don't skip SPF. UV is the main enemy of tattoos — it breaks down pigment and blurs sharpness. Use SPF 30+ on the tattoo whenever in the sun.
7. VII

   Step 7. Placement and size: what to know

   Some areas are almost unusable for tattooing — pigment barely holds there: bottom of the foot, sides of fingers, palms.

   Tattoos with fine details can blur on high-movement areas (back, thighs). I may suggest changing the placement or increasing size — purely so quality doesn't degrade over time.

   WelcomeIf you're planning a tattoo — book a consultation and we'll pick the best option together. Don't hesitate to ask!

Keep this leaflet until your tattoo is fully healed