Getting a tattoo is a thrilling and personal experience, but what happens after you walk out of the tattoo studio is just as crucial as the tattooing process. Proper aftercare ensures your ink heals well, retains vibrancy, and avoids complications such as infections or excessive fading.
However, many unknowingly follow bad advice or outdated practices that can do more harm than good. Whether they listen to friends’ myths, over-moisturize, or expose fresh ink to direct sunlight, small mistakes can have lasting consequences on the quality of their tattoos.
At Ink By Finch, we understand that great tattoos deserve proper care. That’s why we’ve compiled this essential guide to help you avoid the biggest tattoo recovery mistakes—some of which might even surprise you! Read on to learn how to keep your tattoo looking flawless and heal appropriately without unnecessary complications.
1. Sleeping on a Fresh Tattoo
A common but often overlooked mistake is sleeping directly on a fresh tattoo. Many people don’t realize how much movement happens during sleep, and constant friction against bedsheets or pillows can damage the healing tattoo.
Why This Is a Problem
- Bacteria build-up: Your bedsheets aren’t as clean as you think. Even freshly washed sheets can harbor bacteria that may infect your tattoo.
- Excess friction: Pressing down on your tattoo while you sleep can cause scabs to fall off prematurely, leading to patchy healing.
- Ink transfer: Fresh tattoos may leak plasma and ink residue, staining bedding and affecting healing.
What to Do Instead
- Use clean, soft bedding and change pillow cases often.
- Sleep on the opposite side to reduce unnecessary pressure.
- Wear loose, breathable clothing to prevent fabric from sticking to your tattoo.
2. Picking or Scratching at Scabs
Scabbing is typical for tattoo healing, but picking at your tattoo can create permanent damage.
Why This Is a Problem
- Loss of ink: Picking at scabs can pull ink out, leading to uneven shading or faded spots.
- Infection risk: Scratching introduces bacteria, which can result in irritation or, worse, an infection.
- Scarring: Excessive picking may cause long-term scars, affecting your tattoo’s appearance.
What to Do Instead
- If your tattoo itches, lightly slap or tap the area instead of scratching.
- Keep the tattoo lightly moisturized to minimize scab discomfort.
- Avoid tight clothing that may rub against healing skin.
3. Over-Moisturizing the Tattoo
Keeping your tattoo hydrated is essential, but overdoing it can be counterproductive. Some people mistakenly believe that applying thick layers of lotion will speed up healing—it doesn’t!
Why This Is a Problem
- Too much moisture clogs pores, leading to irritation, breakouts, or infections.
- Excess lotion can create a wet environment, preventing proper scab formation and slowing healing.
- Ointments with petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) can potentially block airflow, causing ink to look cloudy or faded.
What to Do Instead
- Apply a thin, even layer of a tattoo-friendly moisturizer twice a day, or as instructed by your tattoo artist.
- Let your skin breathe—don’t keep it coated 24/7.
- Use tattoo-safe, fragrance-free lotions to prevent irritation.
4. Skipping Sunscreen on Healed Tattoos
When fresh, tattoos are essentially open wounds, so exposure to the sun before they fully heal can lead to permanent fading. Even after healing, prolonged UV exposure is a tattoo’s worst enemy.
Why This Is a Problem
- Sunlight causes the ink to break down faster, making colors look dull.
- UV rays penetrate the skin, lightening even black and gray tattoos.
- Sunburn on a fresh tattoo can lead to severe irritation, scarring, or peeling.
What to Do Instead
- Keep fresh tattoos covered with loose clothing if going outside.
- Use a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen once the tattoo is fully healed.
- Avoid tanning beds, as they accelerate fading.
5. Soaking the Tattoo Too Soon
Submerging your tattoo in water (whether in a pool, bathtub, or ocean) can ruin the healing process.
Why This Is a Problem
- Soaking softens scabs, making it easy for ink to leak out.
- Chlorine and saltwater strip moisture, causing excessive dryness and cracking.
- Public pools and hot tubs harbor bacteria, increasing infection risks.
What to Do Instead
- Stick to quick, lukewarm showers for the first 2-3 weeks.
- Pat the tattoo dry gently—never rub it with a towel.
- Wait at least one month before swimming.
6. Listening to Outdated or Unverified Advice
There’s a lot of misinformation about tattoo healing. Some of the most common myths include:
- “You should apply Vaseline to your fresh tattoo”: No, Vaseline traps bacteria and prevents airflow.
- “The bigger the scab, the better it heals”: Incorrect. Scabs should form lightly. Thick scabs indicate excessive trauma.
- “Coconut oil is the best tattoo moisturizer”: Not necessarily. Some oils clog pores and slow healing.
What to Do Instead
- Follow only professional tattoo aftercare recommendations.
- Use products formulated for tattoo healing (not home remedies).
- If unsure, consult your tattoo artist instead of relying on answers on the Internet.
FAQs: Answering Common Concerns
How long does a tattoo take to heal fully?
Most tattoos heal on the surface within 2-3 weeks, but complete healing under the skin can take up to 4 months or longer depending on placement, size and complexity.
Can I go to the gym after getting a tattoo?
Wait at least 3-5 days before exercising. Avoid high-friction workouts and excessive sweating.
What happens if my tattoo gets infected?
Redness, swelling, pus, or fever are signs of infection. If symptoms persist, see a doctor immediately.
Should I rewrap my tattoo at night?
No. Keeping your tattoo wrapped for too long traps moisture and increases infection risks. Follow your artist’s wrapping instructions carefully.
Conclusion
Healing a tattoo doesn’t have to be complicated, but avoiding common mistakes is crucial. Following expert advice, keeping your tattoo clean, and avoiding harmful habits will ensure your ink remains crisp, vibrant, and healthy.
At Ink By Finch, we’re committed to helping you get the best tattoo experience from start to finish. If you have any questions about tattoo aftercare, don’t hesitate to visit our studio or speak with one of our experienced tattoo artists.
Your ink is an investment—treat it carefully, and it will stay beautiful for a lifetime.