Tattoo Aftercare Tips — How to Look After Your New Tattoo

Whether it’s your first tattoo or your fiftieth, taking care of it properly makes all the difference.

Here you’ll find straight-up advice from Australian tattoo artists on how to clean, protect, and heal your fresh tattoo the right way. From first wash to long-term care, these tattoo aftercare tips will help you keep your ink bold, bright, and healthy for years to come.

Learn the basics of tattoo aftercare in Australia — what to use, what to avoid, and how to make sure your new tattoo heals clean. This guide comes straight from the crew at the Sydney Tattoo Convention — people who live and breathe tattooing every day.

Initial 24-Hour Care

  • Remove Plastic Wrap: Within 1-4 hours post-tattoo, gently remove the plastic wrap.

  • Wash Your Tattoo: With clean hands, use warm water and unscented soap to wash away residue, plasma, and dried blood. Pat dry with a paper towel and let it air dry.

  • Apply Aftercare Cream: Use a thin layer of aftercare cream and avoid thick application.

General Tattoo Care Instructions

  • Clean Morning and Night: Use warm water and unscented soap, followed by aftercare cream.

  • Moisturise Regularly: Prevent dryness by regularly applying aftercare cream.

  • Avoid Picking or Scratching: Resist the urge to pick at flaking skin or scabs to prevent damage and pigment loss.

  • Be Mindful of Clothing: Wear clean, soft, loose-fitting clothes to avoid irritation.

After Healing Period: Post-Tattoo Care Instructions

Your tattoo should heal in 3-4 weeks; once it’s completely healed, you can add the following tips to ensure a long-lasting piece. 

  • Apply Sunscreen: High-SPF sunscreen protects your tattoo from fading and UV damage.

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to maintain skin health and vibrancy.

There are some common symptoms that you can experience during the healing process; this includes skin flaking, pigment drop-out, and occasional scabbing may occur; refrain from picking.

*Note: If you’re experiencing severe symptoms, please contact your tattoo artist and seek medical help.

The Saniderm

  • For larger tattoos, consider using Saniderm for protection.

  • Keep it on for 3-5 days: It's normal for the bandage to fill with ink and blood.

  • Remove if uncomfortable: If it causes discomfort or lifts, remove it in the shower and resume regular aftercare.

For Larger Tattoos

  • Re-wrap for the first 2 days: Use cling wrap and surgical tape to seal the tattoo.

  • Nightly re-wrap: Wrap before sleeping.

  • Consider daily re-wrapping if your jobs involves contact with dirt or bacteria.

What to Avoid:

Avoid baths, saunas, swimming, direct sunlight, touching with unwashed hands, strenuous exercise, and shaving or exfoliating to maintain vibrancy and aid healing.

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