Tattoo Aftercare 101: How to Take Care of Your New Tattoo Like a Pro
Getting a new tattoo is exciting—but the healing process is just as important as the tattoo session itself. Proper tattoo aftercare helps prevent infection, promotes vibrant healing, and ensures your tattoo looks sharp for years to come. Whether it’s your first piece or your fiftieth, follow these tattoo aftercare tips from the pros at Lucky 24 Tattoo in Nashville.
The First 24 Hours: Let the Healing Begin!
How long does a tattoo take to heal? That depends on the placement and how well you care for it. The first 24 hours are critical in kickstarting the tattoo healing process.
Keep it covered: If your artist used plastic wrap (saran wrap), keep it on for 2–4 hours. If you’re wearing second skin, leave it on for 2–4 days—unless otherwise directed by your tattoo artist.
Wash your hands: Always use antibacterial soap before touching your tattoo to avoid introducing bacteria into the area.
💧 Clean It: Gentle Wins
After you remove the wrap or second skin, it’s time to clean your tattoo. Here’s how:
Use mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water to gently wash the area. Don’t use a loofah or anything abrasive (pick up some Pears soap or Dr. Bronner’s)
Pat dry with a clean paper towel or a soft, clean cloth. Never rub or scrub—it’ll irritate the skin and prolong healing.
🧴 Moisturize It: Hydration Without Overdoing It
Keeping your tattoo moisturized helps prevent scabbing and cracking, which can damage the ink.
Use a fragrance-free (different from ‘unscented’), alcohol-free lotion or tattoo-specific ointment. Apply a thin layer 3–4 times a day for the first few days (Vanicream is great).
Avoid petroleum-based products like Vaseline. These can clog pores and suffocate your tattoo, slowing the healing process.
☀️ Protect It: Keep Your tattoo Safe
Your new tattoo is basically an open wound—it needs protection from the elements.
Avoid sun exposure as much as possible. If you absolutely must be outdoors, cover your tattoo or use a fragrance-free, high-SPF baby sunscreen (only after it's healed enough—usually after two weeks).
No swimming! Stay out of pools, lakes, oceans, and hot tubs until your tattoo is fully healed. Water can introduce bacteria and lead to infection.
🚫 Be Nice to Your Tattoo
Resist the urge to touch, scratch, or pick at your tattoo. Trust us—it’s not worth it.
Do not scratch or peel the tattoo, even if it gets itchy. Let the skin flake and peel naturally.
Avoid tight clothing that might rub or stick to the tattooed area. Loose-fitting clothes help your tattoo breathe and heal without irritation.
💬 Got Questions?
If you’re ever unsure about your tattoo’s healing process or you think something might be wrong, don’t hesitate to reach out. The team at Lucky 24 Tattoo is here to help.
Questions? Contact the shop info@lucky24tattoo.com or your artist directly anytime!
