Agnes Hayden.

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Tattoo care

Close up view of abstract lower arm wrap around tattoo by Agnes Hayden, showing black brush strokes and light grey textures.

No direct sun exposure.

Fresh tattoos should be kept out of direct sunlight at all times during the healing phase.

After around 1 week:
Once the top layer of skin has peeled off, you can use SPF 50 sunscreen for short periods outside. This is a practical temporary solution, but it does not replace fully covering the tattoo during longer time in the sun.

No chlorinated water.
Please avoid chlorinated water such as pools.

Freshwater and saltwater are generally fine, but only with strict sun protection. That means keeping the freshly tattooed area covered when swimming as well as outside the water.

Do not scratch or pick at peeling skin.
Let the skin shed naturally.

No sauna.
No tanning beds.
Avoid both for the full 3 weeks.

It is best to use an aftercare cream made for fresh tattoos (any brand is fine).

Most important when applying cream:

  • around 2–3 times per day
  • only a very thin layer
  • less is better than too much

Too much cream can over-moisturize the skin. If you forget to apply it sometimes, that is completely fine. Tattoos can also heal dry, this often comes down to personal preference and comfort.

Showering is completely fine.

Water can go on the tattoo normally. Shower gel may run over it, and shampoo can also run over it without any issue.

Water temperature and shower length are generally not a problem.

Fresh tattoos can be a little more sensitive to heat than usual, but you will notice that immediately and can adjust if needed.

Personally, I usually recommend cleaning the tattoo mostly with water only. If something gets on it that should be washed off properly, simply use a little soap briefly and rinse well

Full baths are possible if the tattooed area stays out of the water whenever possible.
For example, if the tattoo is on the arm, rest the arm outside the tub.

Briefly dipping the area under water, for example while washing your hair, is completely fine. Just avoid letting the tattoo soak for longer periods.
Exercise is generally fine.
Sweating is not a problem as long as there is no direct friction on the fresh tattoo.

The main issue is rubbing or pressure on the area. For example, a tattoo on the lower calf should not be exposed to activities such as skiing or inline skating for around 3 weeks, because the repeated friction can irritate the healing skin.
After healing, sunscreen is highly recommended whenever the tattoo is exposed to the sun.

UV exposure stresses the skin and can make tattoos fade or change appearance faster over time. Tanning and sunburn speed up this process even more.

In short:
Sunscreen is not mandatory but it is the best choice if you want your tattoo to stay beautiful for as long as possible.