Aftercare Guide
Proper care is essential for a smooth healing process and vibrant results. Follow these steps to ensure your Bay Ink tattoo heals perfectly.
01
02
First 24 Hours
Healing Phase
Keep the area clean and dry. Avoid soaking, swimming, or submerging the tattoo in water. We recommend using a clean, sterile bandage to protect the skin.
After the initial 24 hours, you can gently wash the tattoo with mild soap and warm water. Pat it dry with a clean towel. Do not scrub or pick at the scabs.
03
Moisturization
04
Final Healing
Apply a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic lotion or aloe vera daily to keep the skin hydrated. This helps prevent cracking and promotes faster healing.
Continue moisturizing for at least 6 weeks. Avoid direct sunlight and tanning beds. Once healed, you can resume your normal activities, including swimming.
The Healing Process
Your tattoo heals in three stages. Understanding each one is the key to great aftercare.
Stage 1 — Inflammation & Oozing (Days 1–3)
Immediate Aftercare
Keep your artist's wrap on for 2–4 hours, then gently remove it and wash the tattoo with mild soap and water. Pat dry with a clean, soft towel and apply a thin layer of a healing ointment like Aquaphor. Avoid petroleum-based products — they can clog pores.
Stage 2 — Itching & Peeling (Days 4–14)
The Peeling Phase
Gently clean the tattoo 2–3 times a day with mild soap and water, patting dry each time. Once it starts to peel, switch from ointment to a fragrance-free lotion two to three times a day to ease itching.
Stage 3 — Healing Home Stretch (Days 15–45)
Long-Term Maintenance
One word — moisturize. Keep applying fragrance-free lotion until the tattoo is fully healed.
Do's & Don'ts
Do's
Don'ts
● Follow your artist's aftercare instructions
● Keep your tattoo clean and moisturized
● Pick, scratch, or peel your tattoo
● Wear loose, breathable clothing
● Swim or use hot tubs and saunas
● Stay hydrated and eat well
● Expose it to direct sunlight or tanning beds
● Apply alcohol or hydrogen peroxide
Aftercare FAQs
How often should I clean my tattoo?
Clean it 2–3 times a day for the first two weeks.
Can I exercise with a new tattoo?
Avoid intense workouts that irritate the tattoo or cause heavy sweating. Light exercise is generally fine.
How long should I avoid swimming?
Wait at least two weeks — longer if you can — before swimming, to avoid infection.
When can I stop applying lotion?
Keep moisturizing for at least three to four weeks, or until the tattoo is fully healed.
What if my tattoo looks infected?
Signs of infection include excessive redness, swelling, pus, or fever. See a healthcare professional right away and don't try to self-treat.