Looking after your tattoo
Fine-line work heals beautifully with a little care. I'll talk you through everything on the day; here's the same guidance to keep.
The short version
- Keep it clean, keep it moisturised, keep it out of the sun
- Wash gently twice a day with unscented soap
- Apply a thin layer of unscented moisturiser
- Don't pick, scratch or soak it while it heals
The first 24 hours
Leave the covering on for as long as I advise on the day. When you take it off, wash your hands first, then gently clean the tattoo with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free soap. Pat it dry with a clean paper towel and let it breathe. If you have a second-skin film dressing, follow the separate instructions I give you for that.
Washing & moisturising
For the next two weeks, wash the tattoo gently twice a day and after anything sweaty or dusty. After washing and drying, smooth on a thin layer of unscented moisturiser or a tattoo-specific balm. Thin is the word: the skin needs air, not a thick coat. Always wash your hands before touching it.
Peeling & itching
Around days three to seven the tattoo will flake and peel, a bit like light sunburn. This is normal. It may itch. Do not pick, scratch or rub it, and never peel the flakes off, as this can pull out ink and affect the fine lines. A light moisturiser eases the itch.
What to avoid while it heals
- No soaking: skip baths, swimming pools, hot tubs and the sea for two weeks
- No direct sun or sunbeds on the fresh tattoo
- No gym, sauna or heavy sweating for around a week
- No tight or rough clothing rubbing the area
- Keep pets and unwashed hands away from it
Long-term care
Once healed, the best thing for any tattoo is sun protection. Use a high-factor SPF on it whenever it's exposed and keep your skin moisturised. Fine-line tattoos stay crispest when they're looked after, and I'm always happy to check yours over down the line.
When to get advice
A little redness, warmth and swelling in the first day or two is normal. If you notice spreading redness, a lot of pain, pus, or you feel unwell with a temperature, contact a pharmacist or your GP, and let me know. It's rare, but always better to check.
This guidance is general and doesn't replace medical advice. If you have any concerns about healing, please speak to a healthcare professional.
Questions about healing?
Drop me a message any time. I'd always rather you asked.