First off… congrats on the new ink. 🙌
We put together an aftercare guide to make sure your tat heals how it’s supposed to.

If you leave the shop with healing cream on, you can keep it on for up to 7 days.

If it starts peeling at the edges or filling up with fluid, it’s okay to remove it sooner.

When removing, do it slowly under warm running water (don’t just rip it off dry).

Once it’s off, follow the next steps below.

Daily Cleaning Routine

Your tattoo is basically an open wound after your session, treat it that way.

Wash gently with lukewarm water + mild antibacterial soap.

Use your hands (no washcloths or loofahs).

Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Don’t rub it.

Apply a very thin layer of Aquaphor or a light antibiotic ointment.

Do this twice a day until it starts peeling.

After a few days, switch from ointment to a light, fragrance-free lotion. Don’t overdo it — too much moisture can slow healing.

What’s Normal

Light redness

Slight swelling

Peeling or flaking (like a sunburn)

Mild itching

Let it peel naturally. That flaky stage is part of the process.

What NOT To Do

Don’t scratch it.

Don’t pick or peel the flakes.

Don’t soak it in baths, pools, hot tubs, lakes, or the ocean for at least 2 weeks.

Avoid heavy sun exposure while it’s healing.

No tight or dirty clothing rubbing against it.

Showers are fine — just don’t let the water beat directly on it for long periods.

Sun & Long-Term Care

Once it’s healed, your tattoo still needs love.

Always use high SPF sunscreen before sun exposure.

The sun fades tattoos faster than anything else.

Keep your skin moisturized regularly to keep the ink looking fresh.

If anything looks unusual (extreme redness, pus, heavy swelling, fever), reach out to us or a medical professional.

Take care of it, and it’ll stay looking solid for years.

— Suncitt Tattoos