Tattoo Aftercare: A Step-by-Step Guide

In short

• Remove the bandage
• Wash the tattoo
• Pat the skin dry
• Apply cream and repeat the care routine for the first 3 days
• Avoid water-based activities
• Don't scratch the tattoo
• Protect it from the sun
• Important: message your artist if you have any doubts

If you have Second Skin protective film

Leave the film on for 3 days. Lymph, excess pigment and a small amount of blood can build up underneath it — sometimes it looks like a small pool of fluid. This is a normal part of healing and not a reason to worry.

After 3 days, gently remove the film under warm water, wash the tattoo, and continue the aftercare routine starting from step 2 below.

⚠️ After removing the film, follow all the recommendations below just as you would for standard aftercare.

1. Remove the bandage

3–5 hours after your session, gently remove the protective bandage. If it has dried onto the tattoo, soak it off with warm water.

2. Wash the tattoo

Gently wash the tattoo with warm water and a mild soap, free of alcohol, strong fragrances or other irritants. If possible, use a hypoallergenic product made for sensitive skin.

Only wash the tattoo with clean hands.

3. Pat the skin dry

Gently pat the tattoo dry with a clean disposable paper towel. Don't rub the skin.

4. Apply cream

Apply a thin layer of Bepanthen or Neba cream, spreading it evenly over the whole tattoo. Don't use any other creams, ointments or antiseptics unless your artist recommended them.

While healing, keep the tattoo away from dirt, dust, pet hair and dirty surfaces. If there's a risk of contact with dirt (work, transport, animals, dust), apply the cream first, then cover the tattoo with a fresh, clean, disposable film.

🔄 For the first 3 days after your session, repeat steps 1–4 every 3–5 hours, using a fresh clean bandage each time.

⚠️ Remember: a fresh tattoo is an open wound. Treat it with the same care as you would any other wound on your skin. Proper aftercare helps avoid complications and ensures a clean heal.

5. Avoid water-based activities

For at least 2 weeks, avoid hot baths, steam and swimming in pools, saunas, hot tubs, lakes, rivers, the sea or other public bodies of water. Only short showers are allowed.

6. Don't scratch the tattoo

Itching during healing is normal. Don't scratch the skin or pick at the scabs that form, no matter how tempting it is.

7. Protect it from the sun

Avoid direct sunlight while healing — keep the tattoo covered with clothing or in the shade. Once fully healed, always use SPF 50 sunscreen.

8. Important

In the first few days, excess pigment, lymph and a small amount of blood can build up under the bandage — it may look like a pool of fluid or dark liquid. This is a normal part of healing and, in most cases, not a cause for concern.

If you have any questions or doubts about the healing process, message your artist and send a photo of the tattoo — we'll help assess the situation and advise on next steps.

If you notice severe redness, swelling, pus, a fever or other unusual symptoms, contact your artist right away and see a doctor if needed.

Wishing you an easy heal and a bright result! With love and care — the One Shot team 🖤 See you for your next tattoo!