Tattoo Aftercare

Please take a moment to read the aftercare—keep your tattoo free of infections.

  • With clean hands, moisturise your tattoo once or twice a day with a mild, fragrance-free moisturiser. I recommend Aveeno, Cerave, Cetaphil or Dermaveen.

    Alternatively, you can also use:

    • 100% pure unrefined coconut oil or jojoba oil

    • Hustle Butter 

    • Inky Tattoo Salve

    Avoid using Bepanthen and Vaseline as they trap bacteria and increase risk of infection.

  • Remove the Glad wrap after 2 hours (or as advised). Don’t keep it on longer than advised!

  • If your tattoo is covered with Second Skin, keep it on for 1–3 days (or as advised). It’s normal to see some excess ink or plasma, but if any liquid leaks or the film lifts or breaks, gently remove it under warm running water and follow the regular aftercare steps below. Otherwise, keep the film on as advised.

  • Wash your tattoo gently with warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Remove all plasma/excess ink gently with your fingertips. Don't use anything abrasive to clean your tattoo.

    Pat dry gently with a paper towel (no tissues or bath towels).

    ​Apply a thin layer of Aveeno/ Cetaphil/ coconut oil (or any of my recommended products above) to hydrate your new tattoo and create a barrier to prevent infection. Avoid over-moisturising. Just once or twice a day is enough. 

    ​Be sure to wash or sanitise your hands before applying moisturiser.

    Wash your tattoo once a day with gentle soap. Regular showers are fine, but avoid over-washing and soaking (no baths or swimming).

    Your tattoo might feel dry or flaky as it heals. Let scabs fall off naturally—no picking or scratching.

    Wear clean, loose, cotton clothing. Avoid tight or scratchy fabrics like wool.

    • Avoid Bepanthen, Vaseline or petroleum-based products as they trap bacteria.

    • Avoid over-washing—regular showers are fine.

    • No swimming, baths, saunas, or water sports for 3-4 weeks.

    • Don’t pick or scratch your tattoo.

    • Avoid sweaty exercise for 7 days, as sweat can cause infections.

    • Avoid sun exposure for the first few weeks. Once healed, apply high SPF sunscreen to keep your tattoo looking fresh for years to come.

A tattoo of a delicate flower on the arm. Work by Wanissa, an Asian female tattoo artist based in Melbourne, specialise in ornamental tattoos and flowers.