Tattoo Aftercare
A simple, proven routine to help your tattoo heal safely and stay looking its best. Follow each stage carefully. The first week matters most.
Healing Time
2–4 Weeks
Wash
Twice Daily
Balm
Bepanthen (Thin Layer)
Avoid
Swimming & Sun
Our studio uses the traditional cling film and Bepanthen healing method, refined over 30+ years to achieve consistently excellent healed results.
Step by step
Healing timeline
Follow these stages carefully. The first week is the most important.
Day 1
Fresh Tattoo- Leave the cling film on for the time recommended by your artist
- Wash gently with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap
- Pat dry with clean kitchen roll or a fresh towel. Never rub
- Apply a very thin layer of Bepanthen
- Re-wrap with fresh cling film if instructed
Days 2–4
Healing- Wash morning and evening using the same gentle method
- Apply only a thin layer of Bepanthen after each wash
- Replace the cling film with fresh cling film as instructed
- Plasma and excess ink beneath the cling film are completely normal
Day 5 onwards
Peeling- Stop using cling film
- Continue applying a thin layer of Bepanthen until dryness and flaking have finished
- The tattoo may look dull while new skin forms. This is normal
- Never pick or scratch, even when it itches
Weeks 2–4
Surface Healed- Most peeling has finished
- Surface healing is usually complete
- Colour becomes brighter as the skin settles
Up to 8 Weeks
Fully Settled- Deeper layers of skin continue to heal
- Protect the tattoo from strong sunlight
- Continue looking after your skin. Every tattoo heals a little differently
Do & don't
Look after your tattoo
Simple habits that give your tattoo the best chance of healing well.
Do
- Wash morning and evening with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap
- Apply a very thin layer of Bepanthen. Less is more
- Use fresh cling film during the first four days
- Pat dry with clean kitchen roll or a fresh towel
- Wear loose, clean clothing over the area
- Get in touch if anything looks or feels unusual
Don’t
- Swim, bathe or soak the tattoo until fully healed
- Expose it to direct sunlight or sunbeds
- Pick, scratch or peel flaking skin
- Use thick creams like Sudocrem, Savlon or petroleum jelly
- Apply scented lotions, soaps or moisturisers
- Drink heavily or use recreational drugs in the first few days. Both slow healing
FAQs
The questions clients ask us most often after a fresh tattoo.
Healing Checker
Answer a few quick questions tailored to the treatment you're viewing. We'll help you understand whether your healing appears normal and what you should do next.
Takes less than 60 seconds
Still need help?
Send us a clear photo and one of our experienced team members will review it and advise on the next steps. If appropriate, we'll recommend a studio check-up or seeking medical advice.