Tattoo Aftercare

Read this. Your tattoo will thank you.

Getting a tattoo is only part of the process. Proper aftercare is essential for clean healing, long-term vibrancy, and protecting the work you just invested in. Below are Andromeda Tattoo’s aftercare guidelines to help your tattoo heal as comfortably and efficiently as possible.

A new tattoo is an open wound and should be treated with care

Andromeda Tattoo

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Andromeda Tattoo ·

Our Aftercare Process

  • tattoo aftercare bandage

    Protect the Tattoo Early

    Immediately after your appointment, your tattoo is treated as an open wound. Proper bandaging and protection during the first few days help prevent infection, reduce irritation, and support clean healing. This early stage sets the foundation for how your tattoo heals long-term.

  • tattoo aftercare soap

    Clean Gently and Consistently

    Once bandaging is removed, keeping your tattoo clean is essential. Washing with clean hands, mild antibacterial soap, and lukewarm water helps remove bacteria, plasma, and buildup without damaging the skin. Gentle care during this stage reduces the risk of complications and uneven healing.

  • aftercare lotion

    Support the Healing Skin

    As your tattoo heals, the skin may feel tight, dry, flaky, or itchy. Light moisturizing with appropriate, fragrance-free products helps support the healing process without clogging pores or trapping bacteria. Avoiding over-application is just as important as moisturizing itself.

  • aftercare sheild

    Protect the Work Long-Term

    After the tattoo has healed, long-term care keeps it looking its best. Sun protection, regular moisturizing, and healthy skin habits help preserve color, contrast, and detail over time. Proper aftercare doesn’t stop when peeling ends. It continues for the life of the tattoo.

FAQs

How long does tattoo healing take?

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Tattoo healing happens in stages. Surface healing usually takes 2–4 weeks, but deeper layers of skin continue healing for several weeks after that. Proper aftercare during the first few days has the biggest impact on long-term results.

Is it normal for a tattoo to leak fluid?

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Yes. Plasma, ink, and small amounts of blood are normal during the first few days, especially under an adhesive bandage. The fluid may appear black or brown and varies by placement, skin type, and tattoo style.

How long should I keep the tattoo bandage on?

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If your artist applied a medical-style adhesive bandage, it should usually stay on for 3–5 days, unless it leaks or the seal breaks. This bandage helps protect the tattoo, reduce scabbing, and support cleaner healing.

If the bandage leaks or breaks early, remove it, gently wash the tattoo, and follow standard aftercare instructions.

What if my tattoo bandage leaks?

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If the seal breaks or fluid leaks out, remove the bandage and wash the tattoo gently. Bacteria can become trapped under a broken seal. If this happens within the first 1–2 days, you may contact the shop for guidance or bandage replacement.

How often should I wash my tattoo?

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Wash your tattoo as needed to keep it clean, especially after sweating or exposure to dirt. Use clean hands, lukewarm water, and antibacterial liquid soap. Over-washing can irritate the skin, so gentle and consistent care is best.

What soap should I use on a new tattoo?

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Use a mild antibacterial liquid pump soap. Avoid bar soap, heavily scented products, or harsh cleansers. Always wash with clean hands only.

When should I start moisturizing my tattoo?

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Once the tattoo begins to feel dry and is no longer actively weeping fluid, you can begin moisturizing lightly. Use a very thin layer of fragrance-free aftercare product. Applying too much can clog pores and slow healing.

What lotion is safe for tattoo aftercare?

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Choose fragrance-free, dye-free products. Approved options may include light, unscented lotions or tattoo-specific aftercare products recommended by your artist. Avoid petroleum-based products unless directed otherwise.

Is itching normal while a tattoo heals?

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Yes. Itching, tightness, flaking, and mild irritation are common during healing. Do not scratch, pick, or peel the tattoo, as this can damage the skin and affect the final result.

What are normal signs of tattoo healing?

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Normal healing signs may include:

  • Redness around the edges

  • Swelling

  • Mild irritation

  • Flaking or peeling

  • Pulsing or aching, especially on legs when standing

These symptoms should improve gradually.

How do I know if my tattoo is infected?

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Signs that may require medical attention include increasing redness, severe swelling, intense pain, heat, pus, or fever. If you are unsure whether something is normal, contact the shop or a medical professional.

Can I swim with a healing tattoo?

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No. Avoid swimming or soaking your tattoo for at least two weeks, and longer if the tattoo is still scabbed or open. Lakes, rivers, pools, and hot tubs should only be entered once the tattoo is fully healed.

Can I go in the sun after getting a tattoo?

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Sun exposure should be avoided during healing. Once healed, always use SPF 30+ sunscreen to protect color, contrast, and detail. Sun damage is one of the biggest causes of tattoo fading over time.

Can pets be around my healing tattoo?

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Pets should not lick the tattoo, and pet hair should be kept away from the healing area. Bacteria from animals can increase the risk of infection.

How do I take care of my tattoo long-term?

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After healing:

  • Use sunscreen when exposed to sunlight

  • Moisturize regularly

  • Keep your skin healthy

Long-term care helps tattoos stay vibrant and sharp for years.

When should I contact the shop about aftercare?

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If you’re unsure whether something is healing normally or have questions about tattoo aftercare, it’s always okay to reach out.

  • Phone: (518) 309-3481

  • Email: andromeda.tattooing@gmail.com