Tattoo aftercare: the complete guide to healing

A tattoo is forever, but how it ends up looking depends heavily on the first few days. Good tattoo aftercare keeps the colour sharp and prevents scarring. This is the guide we give at 357 Tattoo.

The first few days

Remove the initial wrap when your tattoo artist tells you to (usually between 2 and 6 hours). Wash the area with lukewarm water and unscented neutral soap, pat it dry and apply a repair cream in a thin layer, several times a day.

What to avoid while it heals

No direct sun and no UV beds: they can burn broken skin and dull the colour; if you do get exposure, use total protection. Avoid pools and the sea and intense exercise for 10 to 15 days, because sweat and bacteria slow healing down. And don't scratch or pick the scabs.

The timeline

Redness and itching fade after 2 to 3 weeks. The surface looks healed at around a month, but the deeper layers keep healing for 3 to 6 months. Looking after it properly now is what keeps your tattoo flawless for years.

Experience it at 357 Hair Gallery

At 357 Hair Gallery (Andorra la Vella) we don't cut hair: we sculpt presence. Book your appointment online in 60 seconds on our website, or message us on WhatsApp at +376 666 966. We look forward to seeing you.