Tattoo After Care Guide
Day-by-Day Healing Process
Getting a new tattoo is only the first step — proper aftercare is essential to ensure your tattoo heals correctly and keeps its detail, contrast, and longevity.
This tattoo aftercare guide explains the healing process step by step so you know exactly what to expect during the first days and weeks after getting tattooed.
Professional aftercare also reduces the risk of irritation or infection and helps preserve the quality of your tattoo for years to come.
At Supremacy Tattoo, every client receives detailed aftercare instructions to guarantee the best possible healing results.
The Tattoo Healing Process
Tattoo healing usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the size of the tattoo, the placement on the body, and how well aftercare instructions are followed.
During this time, the skin goes through several stages.
Day 1 - Fresh Tattoo
Your tattoo will look bright and slightly swollen. This is completely normal.
You may notice:
• redness around the tattoo
• mild swelling
• a small amount of plasma or ink
What to do:
• keep the protective covering on for the time recommended by your artist
• wash the tattoo gently with lukewarm water and mild soap
• pat dry with a clean towel
• apply a thin layer of recommended aftercare ointment
Days 5-10 - Peeling Stage
At this stage the tattoo will begin to peel, similar to a mild sunburn.
This is part of the natural healing process.
You may notice:
• dry skin
• light flaking
• mild itching
Important:
Do not pick or scratch the peeling skin, as this can damage the tattoo.
Days 2-4 - Senstive Stage
The tattoo may feel warm and slightly tender.
This is when your body begins repairing the skin.
Important tips:
• wash the tattoo 2–3 times per day
• apply a small amount of aftercare lotion
• avoid tight clothing on the area
• do not scratch the tattoo
Days 10-14 - Final Healing
Stage
Most of the peeling will be finished.
The tattoo may appear slightly dull or cloudy while the skin continues to heal underneath.
Continue moisturizing the tattoo and protecting it from irritation.
Professional Aftercare Method Used by Richard Cuadros
At Supremacy Tattoo, every tattoo session finishes with a professional aftercare protocol designed to protect the tattoo immediately after the session and support optimal healing.
According to tattoo artist Richard Cuadros, the first hours after getting tattooed are extremely important for proper healing.
Step 1 – Professional Skin Preparation
Once the tattoo session is finished, a professional product called Tattoo Finish is applied to the skin.
This product helps:
• clean the tattooed area
• disinfect the skin
• close the pores
• reduce plasma leakage or excessive fluid
This step prepares the skin before applying the protective film.
Step 2 – Second Skin Protection
After cleaning and preparing the skin, a second skin protective film is applied carefully over the tattoo.
The film is applied smoothly without bubbles so it fully protects the tattooed area.
This protective layer acts as a barrier against bacteria, friction, and external contamination during the first days of healing.
Clients are advised to avoid getting the tattoo wet during the first day after the session.
After the first day, normal showers are allowed while keeping the protective film in place.
Step 3 – Removing the Second Skin
Clients are usually recommended to remove the second skin between day 5 and day 7, once the tattoo has reached an advanced healing stage.
The best way to remove it is:
• during a warm shower
• slowly and gently
• without pulling aggressively
Warm water helps soften the adhesive and makes removal easier.
Step 4 – Cleaning the Tattoo
Once the protective film is removed:
• wash the tattoo gently with lukewarm water and mild soap
• remove any remaining adhesive residue from the protective film
If needed, a small amount of almond oil can be used to help remove leftover adhesive from the skin.
After cleaning, gently dry the tattooed area.
Step 5 – Moisturizing the Skin
Once the tattoo is clean and dry, apply a moisturizing cream that your skin already tolerates well.
Keeping the skin hydrated helps maintain the clarity, contrast, and overall quality of the tattoo during the final healing stage.
Should I Use Second Skin on a New Tattoo?
Important After Care Advice
Common Tattoo Healing Questions
• Do not scratch the tattoo while healing
• Avoid direct sun exposure during the healing process
• Avoid swimming pools, oceans, or hot tubs until the tattoo is fully healed
• Keep the skin clean and moisturized
Following these steps helps ensure the tattoo heals properly and maintains its detail and longevity.
Book a Tattoo in Bogota
If you are planning to get tattooed in Bogotá and want a custom piece created by an experienced artist, you can schedule a consultation with Richard Cuadros. Learn more about getting Tattooed in Bogota.
Book Your Tattoo Consultation
Tattoo Healing FAQ
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Is it normal for a tattoo to peel? Yes. Peeling is a normal part of the healing process and usually happens between days 5 and 10. The skin may flake slightly, similar to a mild sunburn.
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When can I swim after a tattoo? Swimming in pools, oceans, or hot tubs should be avoided for at least 2 to 3 weeks or until the tattoo is fully healed.
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How long does a tattoo take to heal? Most tattoos heal on the surface within 2 to 3 weeks, but the deeper layers of skin can take 4 to 6 weeks to fully recover depending on the size and placement of the tattoo.
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Can I exercise after getting a tattoo? Light activity is usually fine, but intense workouts that cause excessive sweating or friction on the tattooed area should be avoided for several days.
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When I start moisturizing my tattoo? After removing second skin bandage and cleaning the tattoo, you can begin applying a light moisturizing cream to keep the skin hydrated. Or if you'll using the other method start moisturizing after the 3rd day of the process and keep washing your tattoo for 3 times per day.