Aftercare

Tattoo aftercare

Looking after your new tattoo

Those who take aftercare particularly seriously in the initial phase will benefit from their tattoo for a lifetime.

We use new, disposable sterile needles, tips, gloves, ink caps and rinse cups for your tattoo. After spending the time and money to get a professional and hygienic tattoo, please follow the steps below to avoid damaging your new ink through poor aftercare.

1. Remove the cover film

   Remove the cover film after 2–3 hours. Do not leave it on for longer than 6 hours. Covering a fresh tattoo protects it from dirt and bacteria and keeps blood or fluids off your clothes. Removing the cover lets the skin breathe and helps it recover.

2. Wash gently and keep it clean

   After removing the cover, wash the tattoo gently but thoroughly using only tap water or warm water. Do not apply soap or liquid wash. Pat dry with a paper kitchen towel. You may shower with your new tattoo, but keep showers quick. Keep the tattoo area dry and clean, and do not apply cream or lotion at this stage.

3. On the second day

   You can wash your tattoo if any fluid is coming out. Clean your hands before touching your tattoo and use a clean paper towel to help avoid infection.

4. From the third day

   Apply a thin layer of Papaw ointment 2–3 times daily, or when the tattoo feels dry or itchy, for 2–3 weeks or until the skin has fully recovered. Do not apply other creams with chemical ingredients or sunscreen to it.

5. Take exercise slowly

   You can do some light exercise after 3–4 days.

6. Avoid soaking and direct sunlight

   Do not swim, soak, have baths or expose your tattoo to direct sunlight for at least 14 days, or until the skin is fully healed.

7. Let the skin heal naturally

   Wear loose clothing. Tattoos may form scabs and flaking skin. Leave your tattoo alone: do not pick or scratch. After the initial flake falls off, you may experience a secondary flake known as “milky skin”, which can last up to a week. Keep it dry and apply Papaw ointment if it feels itchy or dry until this goes away.

8. Allow time to heal

   Tattoos typically take 2–4 weeks to heal, depending on the size of the tattoo.