Tattoo Aftercare Guide — Historic Tattoo Portland, OR
Proper aftercare is just as important as the tattoo itself. Follow these steps to ensure your new tattoo heals beautifully.
Step-by-Step Aftercare
Leave the bandage on
Keep the bandage your artist applied for 2-4 hours. This protects the fresh tattoo from bacteria and irritation.
Wash gently
After removing the bandage, wash the tattoo gently with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Pat dry with a clean paper towel — never rub.
Apply a thin layer of moisturizer
Once clean and dry, apply a very thin layer of unscented moisturizer or a tattoo-specific aftercare product like Aquaphor or Hustle Butter. Less is more — don't suffocate the tattoo.
Wash and moisturize 2-3 times daily
For the first 2 weeks, gently wash your tattoo 2-3 times per day and apply a thin layer of moisturizer after each wash. Keep the area clean and hydrated.
Let it peel naturally
Your tattoo will start to flake and peel after about a week. This is completely normal. Do not pick, scratch, or peel the flaking skin — let it fall off naturally.
Protect from sun and water
Avoid direct sunlight, swimming pools, hot tubs, and soaking in baths for at least 2-3 weeks. Once healed, always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen to keep your tattoo looking sharp.
Do's & Don'ts
Do
- +Wash gently with mild, fragrance-free soap
- +Pat dry with a clean paper towel
- +Apply thin layers of unscented moisturizer
- +Wear loose, breathable clothing over the tattoo
- +Keep the tattoo out of direct sunlight
- +Stay hydrated and eat well during healing
Don't
- ×Don't soak in baths, pools, or hot tubs
- ×Don't pick, scratch, or peel flaking skin
- ×Don't apply thick layers of ointment
- ×Don't expose to direct sunlight
- ×Don't wear tight clothing that rubs the tattoo
- ×Don't use products with fragrances or alcohol
Healing Timeline
Fresh & Sensitive
Your tattoo will be red, slightly swollen, and may ooze a small amount of ink and plasma. This is normal. Keep it clean and moisturized.
Peeling Begins
The tattoo will start to feel tight and begin flaking, similar to a sunburn. Do not pick or scratch — let it peel naturally.
Itchy Phase
The tattoo may itch as the deeper layers heal. Resist the urge to scratch. A light slap or cool compress can help relieve itching.
Fully Healed
The surface is healed and the colors have settled. The deeper layers may continue healing for up to 3 months. Apply sunscreen to protect your investment.
When to Contact Us
Some redness and swelling is normal during the first few days. However, contact us if you experience:
- • Excessive swelling, redness, or warmth after 3+ days
- • Pus or unusual discharge (clear fluid is normal)
- • Red streaks extending from the tattoo
- • Fever or chills
- • Any signs of allergic reaction