First 24 Hours: Protect and Clean

Keep your protective film or bandage on for the initial hours recommended by your artist. Wash gently with lukewarm water and fragrance-free antibacterial soap. Always pat dry with a clean paper towel — never rub, and never use cloth towels, which can harbor bacteria and snag on fresh skin.

Days 3 to 14: Moisturization & Healing

Apply a thin layer of specialized tattoo balm two to three times daily. Avoid picking at scabs or peeling skin to prevent ink loss or scarring. Your tattoo will look duller as it flakes — this is completely normal and part of the healing cycle.

Weeks 3 and Beyond: Long-Term Ink Care

Once fully healed, switch to a daily fragrance-free moisturizer and apply SPF 50+ sunscreen whenever the tattoo is exposed to sunlight. UV exposure is the single biggest cause of premature fading, so consistent sun protection is what keeps your ink looking sharp for decades.