Getting a new tattoo is exciting, but looking after it properly is just as important as choosing the right design.
At The Iron Quill, we're committed to helping every client achieve the best possible healed result. Whether you've just had your first tattoo or you're adding to your collection, following the correct aftercare routine will help your tattoo heal cleanly and stay vibrant for years to come.
How to Remove Your Tattoo Bandage
The way you remove your bandage depends on what your tattoo has been wrapped with.
If your tattoo is wrapped in cling film
Remove the cling film on the same day, ideally after around 2 hours.
Once removed:
Wash your hands thoroughly.
Clean the tattoo immediately using warm water and a mild antibacterial, fragrance-free soap.
Gently remove any plasma, ink and residue.
Pat dry with clean paper towel before applying moisturiser.
If your tattoo is covered with Second Skin
If we've applied a second skin dressing, leave it on for 3–5 days, unless it becomes damaged or starts leaking excessively.
When it's time to remove it, we recommend doing so in a warm bath or shower. The warm water helps loosen the adhesive, making removal much more comfortable.
Peel the dressing away slowly and gently. Don't pull it off quickly, as this can remove healing skin or scabs and may affect the final appearance of your tattoo.
How to Clean a New Tattoo
Keeping your tattoo clean is one of the most important parts of healing.
We recommend cleaning your tattoo twice a day.
Follow these simple steps:
Wash your hands before touching your tattoo.
Use warm water with a mild antibacterial, fragrance-free soap.
Gently wash away plasma and excess ink using only your hands.
Never scrub the tattoo or use flannels, sponges or brushes.
Pat dry using clean kitchen roll or paper towel.
Leave the tattoo to air dry for a few minutes before moisturising.
The Best Moisturiser for a Healing Tattoo
A common mistake people make is applying far too much moisturiser.
At The Iron Quill, we recommend using either:
Palmer's Cocoa Butter
A fragrance-free, non-scented lotion
Only apply a very thin layer.
Your tattoo shouldn't feel greasy or heavily coated. Healing tattoos need moisture, but they also need time to dry naturally. Applying too much lotion can trap moisture against the skin, potentially slowing the healing process and causing irritation.
What to Avoid While Your Tattoo Heals
For the best healed results, avoid the following until your tattoo has fully healed:
Swimming pools, lakes and the sea
Hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms
Alcohol-based skincare products
Tight clothing that rubs the tattoo
Pet hair and dirty environments
Picking or scratching scabs and flaky skin
Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo.
How Long Does a Tattoo Take to Heal?
Most tattoos take around 10–21 days to heal on the surface, although the deeper layers of skin continue healing for several weeks afterwards.
During healing it's completely normal for your tattoo to:
Feel warm for the first day or two.
Become slightly red and swollen.
Feel tight or itchy.
Peel or develop small scabs.
These are all part of the normal healing process.
Professional Tattoo Aftercare from The Iron Quill
Looking after your tattoo properly helps preserve the detail, colour and longevity of your artwork.
If you ever have questions during the healing process, don't hesitate to get in touch with The Iron Quill. We'd much rather answer a question than have you worry about whether your tattoo is healing correctly.
Whether you're planning your first tattoo in Medway or you're a regular client, we're here to make sure your tattoo heals beautifully.
Book your next appointment with The Iron Quill and experience professional tattooing in Kent, where quality artwork and expert aftercare always come first.
