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Tattoo Aftercare Guide

How to Care for Your New Tattoo

Caring for your new tattoo the right way is essential for healthy healing and long-lasting colour and detail. This guide shares general aftercare information, but always follow your tattoo artist’s specific instructions, as each tattoo and skin type can respond differently.

1. Leave the Wrap On

Your artist will cover your tattoo after finishing the session. The type of covering used defines how long you should keep it:

  • Cling wrap (plastic film): leave it on for about 1 to 2 hours.

  • Second skin (adhesive film): keep it for up to 3 days - even when showering.

If your tattoo looks a bit blurry or “foggy” under the film, that’s normal. If the area feels irritated, remove it carefully - some people may have mild reactions to adhesive films. 

Tattoo Artist
Cat tattoo design

2. After Removing the Wrap

Once you remove the wrap or film:

  • Wash gently with lukewarm water and a pH-neutral soap.

  • Pat dry with a clean paper towel - avoid rubbing!

  • Apply a thin layer of the recommended aftercare cream.

  • Repeat this process twice a day until your tattoo looks fully healed (usually within 10 to 14 days).

  • Make sure the area stays moisturised throughout the healing process - if it feels dry, you can apply a thin layer of the recommended cream more often.

3. What to Avoid During Healing (First 2 Weeks)

Proper healing helps your tattoo stay vibrant and avoid complications. During the first two weeks:

  • Avoid soaking your tattoo (no baths, pools, spas or swimming).

  • Keep it away from direct sunlight and tanning beds.

  • Don’t apply fake tan products on or near the area.

  • Don’t scratch, rub or pick at peeling skin or scabs.

  • Avoid tight clothing or shoes that might rub against it.

Colorful Tattoos
Tattoo Sleeve

4. Once Healed

Even after healing, ongoing care helps maintain the quality of your tattoo:

  • Keep the skin moisturised - healthy skin keeps tattoos looking fresh.

  • Always use sunscreen on tattooed areas to protect colours from fading.

  • Enjoy your new tattoo!

Important Note

This guide provides general aftercare information only. Your tattoo artist is the best person to advise you on personalised aftercare.

If you noticed any unusual redness, swelling or signs of infection, seek medical advice - tattoo artists are not licensed medical professionals and cannot prescribe treatments or medications.

THANK YOU

After Care.png

Thank you for being here and sharing this moment with us. 

If you need anything during your healing process, reach us anytime by email, Instagram or phone - we’re always happy to help.

 

And if you’ve got a minute, we’d really appreciate a Google review. Your feedback means a lot to our artists.

Contact us

Phone: 0434 469 994 

 joya.tattoocollective@gmail.com

Joya Tattoo Collective logo featuring a stylized black diamond with rays above it and the brand name 'Joya' in playful typogr
Opening Hours

Monday to Saturday, 10:30am to 6pm.

Contact your artist of choice and organise your consultation or tattoo session directly with them.

Suite 2, Level 1, 428 George street, 2000, Sydney

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