Tattoo Aftercare Guide | Tattoo Lab Halifax

Congratulations on Your New Tattoo!

Welcome to the Tattoo Lab family. You’ve just added a piece of art that’s 100% unique to you, and proper tattoo aftercare is the key to keeping it vibrant for life.
Our artists follow the highest hygiene and safety standards, now it’s your turn to take care of your new tattoo like a pro.

Tattoo AfterCare Guide| Tattoo Lab | YouTube

1) The First 24–48 Hours: Second Skin Bandage Care

Your artist has covered your fresh tattoo with a second skin bandage (also known as Saniderm or Derm Shield).

This breathable, waterproof film protects your tattoo from bacteria, dirt, and friction, while keeping the area moist to promote faster healing.

Keep it on for 24–48 hours, unless otherwise advised by your artist.

After that, it’s time to let your tattoo breathe.

How to Remove It Safely

1.Gently lift one corner of the bandage.

2.If it sticks, run warm water over it. Never pull it off dry.

3.Peel it slowly and close to your skin, not upward.

4.Once removed, discard the bandage and get ready for the first wash.

2) First Wash

Clean your tattoo gently using lukewarm water and a fragrance-free antibacterial or baby soap.
Avoid sponges, washcloths, or anything abrasive, your hands are enough.

Rinse thoroughly, then pat dry with a clean paper towel or let it air dry for 10–15 minutes before applying any lotion.

3) Daily Tattoo Care Routine

Consistency is everything for a healthy heal and long-lasting color.

1. Keep It Clean

Wash your tattoo twice a day (morning and evening).
Use mild soap, rinse gently, and keep it free from dirt and sweat.

2. Moisturize Wisely

Apply a thin layer of unscented tattoo aftercare ointment or lotion right after washing.
The goal is soft, not shiny. Avoid over-moisturizing.

3. Let It Breathe

Wear loose, breathable clothing to prevent friction and allow airflow. Avoid tight sleeves or fabrics that may rub against your tattoo.

4. Stay Hydrated

Healthy skin heals better. Drink plenty of water every day to keep your skin nourished from the inside out.

4) What to Avoid During Healing

Your new tattoo is like an open wound. Give it care, patience, and protection.

No scratching or picking. It’s normal to feel itchy. Tap it lightly, but never peel the flakes or scabs.
No soaking. Avoid swimming, bathtubs, hot tubs, or the ocean for at least 2–3 weeks.
No heavy sweating. Take a break from the gym or strenuous activities for a few days.
Avoid sun exposure. Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight while healing, and use SPF 50+ after it’s healed.
Avoid perfumes, lotions with alcohol, or harsh products. These can irritate the skin and cause fading.

5) Tattoo Healing Stages

Your skin will go through several phases. All completely normal.

Days 1–3: The tattoo may ooze plasma and ink. Gently clean and keep it moisturized.
Days 4–7: Light peeling or flaking begins (like a mild sunburn). Do not pick the skin.
Days 7–14: The itching phase. Tap gently to relieve it, but resist scratching.
Days 14 and beyond: The tattoo may look cloudy or dull. This is just new skin forming. The color will sharpen as it fully heals over the next few weeks.

6) Red Flags: When to Seek Help

Contact your artist or a healthcare professional if you notice:

Intense redness or swelling after Day 3
Yellow or green discharge or unpleasant odor
Rash, bumps, or excessive irritation
Fever, chills, or pain spreading beyond the tattoo

Early attention prevents complications and ensures your tattoo heals perfectly.

7) Long-Term Tattoo Care: Keep It Looking Fresh

A well-healed tattoo can stay vibrant for decades with the right care.

Moisturize regularly: Use fragrance-free lotion to keep the skin supple.
Sunscreen every day: UV rays are the #1 cause of tattoo fading, always apply SPF 50+ before stepping out.
Touch-ups: Even with great care, some fading is natural. Tattoo Lab offers complimentary touch-ups within the first few months. Just ask your artist.

8) Join the Tattoo Lab Community

Follow @TheTattooLab on YouTube for real tattoo stories, healing tips, and behind-the-scenes videos from Halifax’s most trusted tattoo studio.