Before your appointment
- You must be 18 or over, and bring photo ID.
- Eat a proper meal beforehand and bring a drink and a snack for longer sessions.
- Get a good night's sleep and don't drink alcohol the day before.
- Wear comfy clothes that give easy access to the area being tattooed.
- If you're unwell, or the skin is sunburnt or broken, let your artist know and rearrange.
How it heals
- Day 1Keep the wrap or film on for as long as your artist told you. Then wash your hands, gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and unscented soap, and pat it dry with clean kitchen roll.
- Days 2–3Wash it gently 2–3 times a day and apply a very thin layer of the aftercare cream your artist recommends. Quick showers are fine, just don't soak it. It may feel warm and look a little red. That's normal.
- Days 4–14It will start to flake, peel and itch. Don't pick, scratch or peel it, and keep the cream thin.
- Weeks 2–4The surface settles and the colours look clearer. It can take a few more weeks to heal fully underneath.
Avoid until it's fully healed
Usually 2–4 weeks, and longer for big pieces.
- Swimming, baths, hot tubs and saunas
- Sunbeds and direct sun
- Picking, scratching or peeling
- Tight clothes rubbing the area
- The gym and heavy sweating for the first few days
Once it's healed
- Use a high-factor sun cream on it to stop fading
- Keep the skin moisturised
- Send us a healed photo, we love seeing them
When to get help
Some redness and tenderness for the first few days is normal. If it gets more red, hot, swollen or painful after a few days, weeps yellow or green fluid, or you feel feverish or unwell, speak to your GP or call NHS 111. Then let us know.
This is general guidance. Always follow the aftercare your artist gives you on the day.
Any questions?
If you're not sure about anything while it heals, get in touch.