Tattoo aftercare
Your tattoo is an open wound for the first couple of weeks — treat it well and it'll stay crisp and vivid for life. Here's exactly what to do, and what's normal along the way.
Six steps to heal
Leave the wrap on
Keep the initial bandage or second-skin on for 2–24 hours as your artist instructs. It protects the fresh wound from bacteria while it starts to close.
Wash gently
With clean hands, wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free, mild soap. Pat — never rub — dry with a clean paper towel. Do this 2–3 times a day.
Moisturize thin
Apply a very thin layer of a fragrance-free healing lotion or ointment. Too much suffocates the skin — a light sheen is all you need.
Hands off
Do not pick, scratch or peel. Flaking and light scabbing is normal around days 3–7 — let it fall off on its own or you risk pulling out ink.
No soaking or sun
For 2–3 weeks: no pools, hot tubs, baths, ocean or direct sun. Showers are fine. Keep it out of the Las Vegas sun especially.
Wear loose clothing
Let it breathe. Tight fabric rubs, traps moisture and can pull at healing skin — pick soft, loose clothing over the area.
Healing timeline
Redness, warmth and light fluid are normal. Wash and moisturize on schedule.
Skin tightens and flakes like a sunburn. Do not pick. Keep moisturizing thin.
Itchiness is normal — tap, don't scratch. A cloudy "milk-skin" layer may appear; it clears up.
Outer skin looks healed. Deeper layers finish over 2–3 months — keep up sun protection.
When to call a doctor
Signs of infection are rare with proper care but worth knowing: spreading redness, significant swelling, heat, pus, red streaks, or fever. If you see these, see a medical professional — and text us so we know.
How long does a tattoo take to heal?
The surface heals in about 2–3 weeks, while the deeper skin fully settles over 2–3 months. Follow the wash-and-moisturize routine daily for at least the first two weeks.
Is redness or scabbing normal?
Light redness, warmth and thin flaking or scabbing in the first week are completely normal. Spreading redness, heat, pus or fever are not — contact us and, if needed, a doctor.
Can I go in the Las Vegas sun?
Not on a fresh tattoo. Keep it out of direct sun for 2–3 weeks, then always use SPF 30+ on the healed tattoo to keep the ink from fading.
What if I have questions while healing?
Text us any time at (702) 908-0002. We answer aftercare questions for every client — it's part of the service.