Tattoo aftercare advice is one of the most important parts of the tattoo process.
There’s nothing quite like the moment you get a new tattoo and look in the mirror for the first time. The artwork is finished, the excitement kicks in, and you finally see the piece you’ve been waiting for.
But the journey doesn’t stop when the tattoo is finished. Proper aftercare is what ensures your tattoo heals well and continues to look great for years to come.
At Tabula Rasa Tattoo Studio in Chesterfield, we always remind our clients that healing is just as important as the tattoo itself.
Depending on the style, size and placement of your tattoo, your artist may give slightly different advice based on their experience. Always follow the instructions given by your artist first.
However, there are some key aftercare principles that apply to most tattoos.
Here are five important tips to help your tattoo heal properly.
1. Make Sure You Rest
After getting a tattoo it’s completely normal to feel tired, drained or even a little unwell. Your adrenaline levels rise during the tattoo process and once that settles your body can feel exhausted.
Some people experience what’s commonly called “tattoo flu”, where you feel slightly run down for a day or two.
The best way to manage this is simple:
• Get plenty of rest
• Stay hydrated
• Make sure you eat properly
If you’ve had a larger tattoo or work on the lower legs, it’s a good idea to take a few slower days afterwards. This helps your body start healing and can reduce swelling.
2. Follow Your Artist’s Aftercare Advice
The most important rule of tattoo aftercare is simple:
Listen to your artist.
Every tattoo is slightly different, and experienced artists know how their work heals best.
While it can be tempting to search online for general advice, not every healing method suits every tattoo style. Your artist understands the technique used, the style of the tattoo and the best healing approach for that particular piece.
At our Chesterfield tattoo studio, we always encourage clients to contact us if they’re unsure about anything during healing.
There’s no such thing as a silly question when it comes to looking after your tattoo.
3. Use Proper Tattoo Aftercare Products
A tattoo is an investment in both art and your skin, so it’s important to use products designed specifically for tattoo healing.
Tattoo aftercare creams are formulated to:
• Support healing
• Protect the skin
• Help colours and lines remain vibrant
At Tabula Rasa Tattoo Studio we often recommend Butterluxe, a brand we know and trust for tattoo healing.
Using random creams or skincare products that aren’t designed for tattoos can sometimes cause irritation, allergic reactions or affect the way the tattoo heals.
Always check ingredient lists and avoid anything you may be sensitive to.
4. Keep Your Tattoo Clean and Dry
Keeping your tattoo clean during healing is essential.
Showers are perfectly fine, because clean water runs over the tattoo. However, soaking in baths should be avoided while the tattoo is healing.
When skin is freshly tattooed it is sensitive and fragile. Sitting in bath water can expose the tattoo to bacteria and prevent the skin from healing properly.
During the healing process you should also avoid:
• Swimming pools
• Hot tubs
• Saunas
• Sunbeds
• Direct sunlight on the tattoo
These can all cause irritation or introduce bacteria to the healing skin.
5. Don’t Pick, Scratch or Peel
As your tattoo heals, it will usually enter an itchy stage and may begin to flake or scab slightly.
This is completely normal.
However, it’s very important not to pick, peel or scratch the area.
Pulling away healing skin can remove ink from the tattoo, cause patchy healing or even lead to infection.
Your skin is working hard to repair itself. Leaving it alone is the best thing you can do to ensure your tattoo heals beautifully.
Tattoo Aftercare Questions
How long does a tattoo take to heal?
Most tattoos take around two to four weeks for the surface skin to heal, although deeper healing continues for a little longer.
What should I do if my tattoo feels irritated?
If something doesn’t feel right, the best step is always to contact your tattoo artist for advice.
Need More Tattoo Aftercare Advice?
We hope these tips help you feel more confident about healing your tattoo.
If you ever have questions about aftercare, you can always contact your artist at Tabula Rasa Tattoo Studio in Chesterfield for advice.
You can also visit our aftercare page on the website for more information.
And remember — when it comes to tattoos, it’s always better to ask than to guess.
Happy healing!
Thinking about your first tattoo — or your next one?
Whether you already have a clear idea or just the beginning of one, we’re always happy to talk it through. Send us an enquiry or book a consultation, and let’s explore what your tattoo could become