Tattoo aftercare

The tattoos I create are my business card, so, naturally, I want them to look great fresh, but mostly over the years. When I create the design and tattoo, I make a lot of decisions that you may not be aware of, but which are extremely important for the healing process and the preservation of your tattoo. ​

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But no matter how much skill, time, and energy I put in each piece I create if you do not take care of it properly. Aftercare is as important as the tattooing process. Read the steps below to be sure you make the best decisions for your piece and don't hesitate to contact me if you have other questions.​

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Choosing the right placement for your tattoo

The first step to a timeless tattoo is picking the right spot on your body. Placement plays a big role in how a tattoo looks, feels, and ages. I always take time to help clients find a location that complements their body’s natural flow and enhances the design.

Whether it’s a large piece that follows your body’s curves or a smaller, discreet design, thoughtful placement ensures your tattoo looks balanced and harmonious, and will not be impacted over the years.

For instance, neck, face, hands and elbow tattoos will naturally have a different healing process and quality over time. So are tattoos covering scars. Likewise, I never recommend tattooing over areas affected by eczema or psoriasis for the obvious reasons.

However, you don't need to know where to place your new piece when contacting me; I can help you with that. 

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How a tattoo design impacts healing

While your tattoo ideas are important, it’s essential to understand that some designs may have limitations. What looks great in concept doesn’t always translate well on the skin over time. My goal is to ensure your tattoo not only looks amazing when fresh but also ages beautifully.​

That’s why I take the time to explain any potential issues with certain design ideas and offer expert recommendations for the best alternatives. With my experience, I’ll guide you toward a tattoo that balances your vision with longevity, so you’ll love it for a lifetime. It is the reason I may not recommend reducing the size of certain elements, or including colour where black & grey will age better. ​

Together, we’ll create a custom tattoo that expresses your vision and stands the test of time. 

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Technique and experience are important

Even the most beautiful design depends on precise execution. As your tattoo artist, I focus on technique, hygiene, and precision to guarantee smooth, consistent results and optimal healing. Each person has a different type of skin; some are easier to tattoo, others require a different technique and approach to make sure the result is always my best work. Throughout our session(s), I need to constantly adapt and that is not something you see. Luckily for you, I have seen so many skin types and tattooed so many body areas, that adapting my work every minute of our session is not an issue; it's part of the job.

Once your tattoo is complete, proper aftercare becomes your responsibility. Following my instructions will help your skin recover quickly and keep your tattoo looking bright and defined.

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Using second skin folia for healing

If we apply the second skin folia over your tattoo at the end of the session, keep it on for 4 days. Unless it peels off alone for different reasons. This folia contributes to a quicker healing process while it also protects the fresh tattoo from dust, sand, and direct sun. ​​

During this time, you may shower normally but should strictly avoid swimming pools, saunas, baths, or intense sports sessions. These activities will allow water or sweat to get under the folia, which will affect the healing process.

After 4 days, peel off the folia gradually and slowly under warm water; do not peel it off all at once.

If your folia peels off earlier than the four days and uncovers parts of the tattoo, remove it altogether; otherwise, the tattoo will heal differently uncovered and under the folia. The next step is to remove the second skin, clean the tattoo, and start applying healing cream.

Keep in mind that a small percentage of people may experience a slight allergic reaction to the folia. This can present as itchiness, redness, or sore skin around the folia. If it occurs, send me a photo of the area. You may need to remove the second skin, clean the tattoo, and start applying healing cream.

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How to wash a fresh tattoo

Once you remove the second skin folia, or other cover that we may use, gently wash the tattooed area with antibacterial soap and lukewarm water. Do not soak your tattoo or use hot water. 

Always wash your tattoo before applying any healing cream, and make sure to pat it dry with a clean paper towel or soft cloth; never rub. If you cannot wash it properly, you may use alcohol free wipes (such as baby wipes) to clean and eliminate any residues.

Cleanliness is crucial to prevent irritation or infection during the healing phase.

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How to apply tattoo healing cream

Use a trusted aftercare product such as Bepanthen Tattoo or Sorry Mom Tattoo Balm.

Apply a thin, even layer, just enough to keep the skin moisturized without suffocating it. Applying too much cream can trap moisture, slow down the healing process, and may even lead to the formation of small grease spots under the skin.

Repeat this process around four times a day for approximately two weeks after removing the folia. After the two-week mark, stop applying cream and allow your skin to continue healing naturally. Do not continue applying cream "just in case" or "to empty the tube". 

Always remember to gently wash your tattoo with antibacterial soap and water before each application to maintain proper hygiene and prevent irritation.

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How sun exposure affects tattoos

Avoid direct sun exposure during the healing process. Always use sunscreen over your tattoos, but never over a freshly or still healing tattoo. Apply SPF only once the full healing cycle of 2-3 weeks has closed.

The sun is one of the most significant reasons why tattoos do not heal properly, fade over time, and, generally, it is one of the reasons our skin ages rapidly, the more it is exposed to direct sunlight. Your tattoo will naturally age with your skin, but in order for it to age beautifully, you need to protect it from sunburns and from extended sun exposure. The sun may also affect the quality of the colors used. 

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Long-term skincare for tattoos

Once your tattoo has fully healed, it’s essential to keep the skin hydrated to maintain color vibrancy and definition.

Use a light, fragrance-free moisturizer or hydrating lotion regularly. Healthy, moisturized skin keeps your tattoo looking fresh and detailed for years. Don't forget to apply sunscreen when the UV index is higher than 0 and your tattoos are exposed for a longer time.​