Aftercare
The first two weeks decide how the tattoo will look in ten years.
The first hours
Leave the protective film on the tattoo for 2–4 hours. Then remove it, wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild fragrance-free soap and pat it dry with a clean disposable towel. If I applied a second-skin healing film, leave it on for 3–5 days as agreed and do not remove it earlier.
The first two weeks
- Wash twice a day (morning and evening) with lukewarm water and mild soap, using only a lightly soaped palm. Pat dry, do not rub.
- Apply a thin layer of healing cream: Bepanthen Plus, white petroleum jelly (Vaselinum album) or the tattoo balm I recommend. Thin: the skin has to breathe.
- Do not pick scabs and do not scratch. Itching is normal; tap, do not touch.
- Wear loose, clean clothes and sleep in clean bedding.
What to avoid for two to three weeks
- baths, swimming pools, open water, sauna, tanning beds
- direct sun on the tattoo
- strenuous sport and heavy sweating
- alcohol for 24 hours after the session
- pets in the bed
Long term
A tattoo ages with the skin. SPF 50 whenever it is in the sun and regular moisturising keep a tattoo sharp for years. Protect long-healed tattoos too.
When to get in touch
Mild redness and a feeling of warmth during the first two days are normal. If the redness grows after two days, the area is hot and swollen, or you notice pus, fever or red streaks, write to me immediately and see a doctor.
Never put Framykoin or any other antibiotic ointment on a tattoo unless a doctor prescribed it. Do not take antibiotics without consulting a doctor.
Recommended products
- Bepanthen Plus or white petroleum jelly (Vaselinum album), available in pharmacies
- a fragrance-free tattoo balm
- a mild fragrance-free soap (baby soap works)