Tattoo aftercare

Care for your tattoo, step by step. Follow the dressing instructions given at your session, then use the daily routine below. If you are unsure, contact Alina at 54tattoos@gmail.com.

Your dressing

Second skin

Follow the timing given for the specific film used at your session. For Recovery Derm Shield, the manufacturer advises around 24 hours for the first application, depending on fluid build-up; a fresh application can then stay on for several days. Never wear one piece for more than a week. Only replace it if Alina has explained how.

A little ink, blood and plasma under a sealed film is normal. Remove it if it leaks, water gets underneath or the tattoo becomes exposed. If irritation or an adhesive reaction occurs, stop using it. Peel gently back over itself, rather than pulling upwards; wash and dry the area afterwards.

Classic wrap or absorbent pad

Remove or change it at the time advised at your appointment. If a pad becomes saturated or leaks, change it sooner. Use a fresh sterile, non-stick dressing only if advised. Do not keep re-wrapping in cling film.

Daily care after removing the dressing

Wash your hands before touching the tattoo. Gently wash the area with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Pat dry with a clean paper towel; do not scrub. Apply a thin layer of the recommended aftercare product when needed. Keep it clean and dry between washes.

Do not pick or scratch peeling skin. Wear clean, loose clothing and avoid rubbing. Avoid alcohol, peroxide, fragranced products and thick layers of cream on the healing area.

Water, exercise and sun

Take short showers. Avoid swimming, baths, hot tubs and saunas until the skin has fully healed — not just for a fixed number of days. Avoid exercise that causes rubbing, stretching, heavy sweating or contact with dirty surfaces while the tattoo is healing.

Keep a fresh tattoo out of direct sun and sunbeds. Once fully healed, use SPF 50 when it is exposed.

When to get help

Some early tenderness, mild redness and later peeling can be expected. Increasing redness, swelling, heat or pain, foul-smelling discharge or pus need prompt medical advice from your GP or NHS 111. Fever, rapidly spreading redness or feeling very unwell need urgent assessment. Call 999 for difficulty breathing or swelling of the mouth or throat.

For routine healing questions, email 54tattoos@gmail.com. Do not wait for an artist’s reply if you suspect an infection.

Touch-ups

One free mini touch-up is available within 90 days if needed after proper aftercare. Send a clear daylight photo once the tattoo has healed so we can assess it.