Tattoo aftercare

Aftercare for your new tattoo — the SOHO guide

A beautiful tattoo deserves the very best aftercare. Proper care determines not only how your tattoo looks in ten, twenty, or thirty years, but also how comfortable the healing process is.

Every skin type is unique. Everyone heals differently. One skin type is dry and sensitive, another is oilier or firmer. As a result, the same tattoo may heal faster and more cleanly on one person than on another. Some people barely notice any scabbing, while others experience a bit more flaking or redness.

Know your own skin. Are you sensitive or do you tend to get irritated easily? Then be extra careful with how often you clean and moisturize, and always choose mild, pure products. Listen closely to your body during healing and adjust your aftercare if needed. Not sure? Feel free to contact us — we're happy to think it through with you.

Daily care (days 1–14)

Cleaning: Wash gently twice a day with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Avoid harsh soap, scrubs, or washcloths.

Moisturizing: Apply a thin layer of tattoo aftercare cream to clean skin. Too much cream can clog pores; too little will let the skin dry out. A thin, even layer is enough.

Protecting: Keep the tattoo out of direct sunlight, and avoid swimming pools, saunas, the sea, and tight-fitting clothing that can rub against it.

Exercise: Intensive exercise is not recommended for the first two weeks after getting your tattoo.

We recommend Bephanthen aftercare products because we fully stand behind them ourselves. The formula is sound, effective, and supports calm, beautiful healing with minimal scabbing and bright colors.

What you should absolutely not do

Don't scratch, pick, or peel at flaking skin or scabs.

No tanning beds, saunas, swimming, or prolonged sun exposure during the first four weeks.

Don't use greasy ointments, Vaseline, alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide.

No baths or long showers where the tattoo sits underwater and effectively soaks.

Healing stages in short

Week 1: The tattoo feels tight, may flake slightly, and can sometimes look a bit dull. This is normal.

Weeks 2–3: New skin forms. Colors come back to life.

Month 1 and beyond: The tattoo has healed on the outside, but the pigment is still settling deeper into the skin. Keep hydrating and protecting it well during the first month.

When should you contact us? 

If you notice extreme redness that keeps getting worse, pus, fever, severe swelling, or if the tattoo doesn't seem to be improving after two weeks. It's always better to ask one time too many than too little.