Tattoo Aftercare Guide
Proper aftercare is essential to ensure your tattoo heals well and looks its best long-term. Following these guidelines will help prevent infection, minimise irritation, and protect the quality of your tattoo.
Healing times vary depending on the tattoo and your skin, but most tattoos take around 2–4 weeks to heal on the surface, with deeper healing continuing for several weeks afterwards.
Immediately After Your Appointment
Your tattoo will be covered with a protective dressing when you leave the studio.
Follow your artist’s instructions for removing this. In most cases you should:
Leave the covering on for a few hours (or as instructed by your artist).
Wash your hands before touching the tattoo.
Gently remove the dressing and wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap.
Do not scrub the tattoo.
After washing:
Pat the area dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
Allow it to air dry for a few minutes before applying aftercare cream.
Moisturising Your Tattoo
Apply a very thin layer of fragrance-free tattoo aftercare cream.
Good options include:
fragrance-free moisturiser
specialised tattoo aftercare balm
You should moisturise the tattoo 2–3 times per day during healing.
Avoid applying too much cream — the tattoo should be lightly moisturised, not saturated.
Normal Healing
During the healing process your tattoo may:
appear slightly red or swollen
feel warm for the first day or two
begin to peel or flake after several days
feel slightly itchy
These are normal parts of healing.
Do not pick or scratch the tattoo, as this can remove ink and cause scarring.
Things to Avoid While Healing
For the first 2–3 weeks, avoid:
swimming pools, hot tubs, and baths
direct sun exposure
tight clothing rubbing against the tattoo
excessive sweating or friction
picking or scratching the tattoo
Showers are fine, but avoid soaking the tattoo.
Sun Protection
Once your tattoo has fully healed, sun protection is essential to preserve the quality of your tattoo.
UV exposure can cause tattoos to fade over time.
We recommend applying high-SPF sunscreen whenever your tattoo will be exposed to the sun.
Signs of Infection
Infection is uncommon but can occur if a tattoo is not properly cared for.
Contact a medical professional if you experience:
severe redness spreading beyond the tattoo
excessive swelling
pus or unusual discharge
fever or severe pain
If you have concerns about healing, you are welcome to contact the studio for advice.
Questions About Your Tattoo
If you have any concerns during the healing process, feel free to contact Elysium Tattoo.
We are always happy to help ensure your tattoo heals properly.
Booking a Tattoo in Sheffield
If you’re interested in booking a tattoo, you can find information about our artists and booking process on the Elysium Tattoo website.
Our Sheffield studio works by appointment to ensure every client receives the time and attention their tattoo deserves.
