Tattoo aftercare — how to take care of your new tattoo
Tattoo aftercare — how to take care of your new tattoo
When you've just had a new tattoo at Masterpiece Tattoo in Sagene, Oslo, it's incredibly important to take good care of it. Remember: the tattoo is not permanent until the skin has fully healed. At first, the tattoo is an open wound that bleeds and weeps — proper aftercare is the key to ensuring the skin heals as well as possible and that the tattoo keeps its glow.
Keep the protective film on for 3–5 days
At Masterpiece we usually apply Second Skin to fresh tattoos. This thin plastic layer can stay on for 3–5 days. It is completely normal to see blood, ink and fluid collecting in a small bubble under the film — do not pierce it! If the film punctures, remove it and follow your artist's aftercare advice.
Removing the protective film
When removing Second Skin, make sure you do it in a clean area. Pull the film gently by stretching it like chewing gum — it will lift automatically from the skin. Don't worry if it looks like ink is coming with it, this is completely normal. Regular plastic wrap can be removed in the traditional way.
Cleaning and moisturising
After the film is removed, your daily care routine begins. Here's how to do it:
- Always wash your hands first
- Rinse the tattoo with lukewarm water and remove excess ink and blood
- Use a mild, fragrance-free cleansing soap
- Rinse thoroughly so no soap residue remains
- Let the skin air dry, or pat gently with lint-free paper — not a towel!
- Apply a thin layer of cream, massage gently, and let the skin absorb it
How long?
Repeat the process 2–4 times daily during the first week, and 1–2 times daily during the second week. After that, moisturise when the tattoo feels dry. Healing time varies from person to person, but usually takes 2–8 weeks. Want to keep the glow for years? Moisturise daily — even after the tattoo has healed.
Recommended products
We recommend TattooMed Cleansing Gel for cleaning and TattooMed After Tattoo cream for moisturising. Both products are available directly from us in the studio, or at skinlabs.no.
Golden rules during the healing process
To avoid complications and preserve the quality of your tattoo:
- Avoid deodorant, perfume and strong products near the tattoo
- Wait at least 1 week before exercising or heavy physical work
- Do not use a towel, sponge or cloth directly on a fresh tattoo
- Avoid sun and sunbeds for 4–6 weeks
- Stay away from baths, hot tubs and swimming pools — showering is fine
- Do not scratch or pick at the tattoo
- Protect the tattoo from bacteria (children, pets, dirt)
- Wear loose clothing — don't let seams or tight garments rub against the tattoo
- Always use sunscreen in the future — tattoos fade faster in sunlight
Summary
Aftercare is at least as important as the tattoo itself. Follow our advice carefully, use good products and remember sunscreen. Then you can enjoy your artwork — sharp, fresh and beautiful — for many years to come.
Read also: Can I shower with a new tattoo? →
Read also: 10 tips for keeping the colours fresh for years →
