Taking care of a new tattoo isn’t just about keeping it clean — it’s about protecting the artwork, healing your skin, and avoiding costly touch-ups. But even with the best of intentions, many people make the same avoidable mistakes and end up with faded ink, infections, or patchy healing.
Tattoo Aftercare: 10 Mistakes to Avoid
These are the most common missteps artists say they see every week — and what to do instead.
**Touching it with dirty hands**
Your tattoo is an open wound. Every time you touch it without washing your hands first, you’re risking infection.
**Leaving the bandage on too long (or not long enough)**
Most artists recommend leaving the bandage or wrap on for 2–6 hours, depending on skin type, placement, and wrap method (plastic vs. second skin). Leaving it on too long traps moisture; removing it too soon exposes it to germs.
**Using heavy ointments**
Petroleum jelly or thick creams can clog pores and suffocate the skin, slowing down healing. Light, breathable moisturizers made for tattoos work best — and less is more.
**Sleeping on it**
Rolling onto your fresh tattoo at night can cause friction, ink transfer, or stickiness that leads to scabbing. Try sleeping on the opposite side and wearing loose, breathable clothing.
**Letting scabs dry out and crack**
Scabbing is normal, but letting it dry too much causes cracking, which can damage the detail of your tattoo. Lightly moisturize and avoid picking.
**Swimming too soon**
Pools, lakes, and oceans are off-limits until your tattoo is fully healed — typically 2–4 weeks. Even clean-looking water can carry bacteria.
**Overwashing**
Too much cleaning strips away protective oils and irritates the skin. Wash your tattoo twice a day — not every time you think about it.
**Wearing tight clothing over it**
Rubbing, pressure, and trapped sweat can all irritate your tattoo, especially in the early days. Go for loose, breathable fabrics that won’t stick.
**Skipping sunscreen (long term)**
Once your tattoo is fully healed, SPF is your best defense. UV rays can quickly fade colors and blur crisp lines. Use SPF 30+ every time it’s exposed.
**Ignoring signs of infection**
Redness, swelling, pus, or a foul smell after several days are not normal. If something feels off, don’t wait — contact your artist or a medical professional.
It’s tempting to treat a new tattoo like a finished product, but really, it’s just the beginning. The first few weeks determine how your ink will look for years — and smart aftercare keeps it looking bold, clean, and vibrant.
