TATTOO
AFTERCARE
GUIDE.

The First 24 Hours

Leave the Wrap On

Your artist will cover your fresh tattoo with a protective wrap or bandage. Leave it on for the time period your artist specifies — typically 2–4 hours for traditional wrap, or up to 24 hours for second-skin/saniderm bandaging.

First Wash

When you remove the wrap, gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free, mild soap (like unscented Dial or Dr. Bronner's unscented). Use clean hands only — no washcloths or sponges. Pat dry gently with a clean paper towel.

First Moisturize

Apply a thin layer of unscented, dye-free lotion (Lubriderm, Aveeno, or Aftermath Skincare — our preferred aftercare partner). Do not over-moisturize — a thin layer is all you need. The skin needs to breathe.

Days 2–14

Daily Routine

Wash your tattoo 2–3 times per day with mild soap and lukewarm water. Pat dry. Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion after each wash. Keep it simple and consistent.

What to Avoid

Do not: submerge in pools, hot tubs, lakes, or baths. Shower briefly instead. Do not pick or scratch peeling skin — let it flake naturally. Do not expose to direct sunlight. Do not apply sunscreen until fully healed (2–4 weeks).

Peeling is Normal

Around days 4–7 your tattoo will begin to peel like a sunburn. This is completely normal. Do not pick it. The skin underneath is the healed tattoo — peeling prematurely can pull out ink and create patchy spots.

Long-Term Care

Sun Protection is Critical

UV exposure is the #1 cause of tattoo fading. Once fully healed (4+ weeks), always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen to your tattoo when exposed to the sun. This preserves color and contrast for years longer than unprotected tattoos.

Keep it Moisturized

Healthy, moisturized skin holds ink better. Make lotion application part of your daily routine even after your tattoo is fully healed. Well-moisturized tattoos look fresher, hold color longer, and age more gracefully.

Touch-Ups

Most tattoos benefit from a touch-up 6–8 weeks after the initial heal. Some styles — especially fine line and watercolor — may need touch-ups more frequently over time as the ink settles into the skin. Contact Apex Tattoo for touch-up scheduling.

Arkansas Climate Tips

Summer Heat & Humidity

Arkansas summers are brutal on healing tattoos. Avoid excessive sweating on fresh ink for the first 2 weeks. If you work outdoors, cover the tattoo with clean, loose-fitting clothing. Humidity can slow healing — keep the area clean and dry.

Winter Dryness

Cold, dry Arkansas winters can cause skin to crack and peel more aggressively around tattoos. Increase moisturizer frequency in winter months, especially on older tattoos that are prone to drying out.

Warning Signs

Normal vs. Concerning

Normal: Redness, swelling, and soreness for 2–3 days. Light scabbing. Peeling skin. Itching during healing.

See a doctor if: Excessive swelling or spreading redness after day 3. Yellow or green discharge. Fever or chills. Hot, painful skin that worsens instead of improving. These may be signs of infection.