Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

Proper aftercare starts the moment your session ends. A new tattoo is an open wound, so how you care for it over the next few weeks affects how well it heals and how it looks long-term. Follow these instructions from The Suit of Swords to keep your tattoo healing cleanly.

Removing Your Bandage

  • If you leave with Recovery-Derm: keep it on for 3–4 days. Avoid soaking it or spraying water directly on it, since that can make it peel off early.

  • If you leave with a standard bandage: remove it after 2–3 hours.

  • Remove the bandage in a clean bathroom with freshly washed hands, and throw it away right after.

Washing Your Tattoo

  • Gently wash the tattoo with Dial Antibacterial Liquid Soap and warm water, removing any excess blood, plasma, or ink.

  • Rinse with cool water and let it air dry, or pat it dry with a clean paper towel.

  • Never use a washcloth, scrubber, or loofah on your new tattoo.

Moisturizing Your Tattoo

  • Once it's dry, apply a thin layer of Aquaphor healing ointment or another light, unscented lotion with clean hands, 2–3 times a day.

  • Don't use Vaseline, petroleum jelly, or any oil-based ointment.

What to Avoid While Healing

  • Don't soak your tattoo in pools, hot tubs, baths, lakes, or the ocean until it's fully healed, usually 2–3 weeks.

  • Keep it out of direct sunlight. Unhealed skin burns easily, and sun exposure causes fading.

  • Don't scratch, pick, or rub it, even when it itches or peels.

  • Avoid tight clothing that rubs against the tattoo.

  • Avoid heavy sweating and intense workouts for the first few days.

What’s Normal During Healing

Most tattoos take 2–4 weeks to heal on the surface. Light peeling, flaking, and itching are normal, so let the flakes fall off on their own. If you notice spreading redness, heat, swelling that gets worse, pus, or a fever, contact a medical professional.

Long-Term Care

Once your tattoo is fully healed, use sunscreen on it whenever it's exposed. Sun is the biggest cause of tattoo fading over time.

Tattoo Aftercare FAQ

How long does a tattoo take to heal?

Most tattoos heal on the surface in 2–4 weeks, once peeling and flaking have stopped. The deeper layers of skin can take a few months to fully settle, so keep following long-term care, especially sun protection, even after your tattoo looks healed. Larger pieces and heavily saturated blackwork may take a little longer.

When can I swim after getting a tattoo?

Wait until your tattoo is fully healed on the surface, usually 2–4 weeks, before swimming in pools, hot tubs, lakes, or the ocean. Soaking a healing tattoo can cause fading, and pools and natural water can carry bacteria that lead to infection. Short showers are fine; just avoid soaking it.

When can I work out after getting a tattoo?

Give your tattoo at least 48 hours before light exercise, and avoid heavy sweating, intense workouts, or anything that stretches or rubs the tattooed area for the first week. Wear loose, breathable clothing, wipe down gym equipment before using it, and gently wash your tattoo after working out.

Is peeling and itching normal?

Yes. Light peeling, flaking, and itching are a normal part of healing and usually start a few days after your session. Don't scratch or pick at your tattoo. Let the flakes fall off on their own, and keep it moisturized with a light, unscented lotion. If you notice spreading redness, heat, worsening swelling, or pus, contact a medical professional.