Proper aftercare for a fresh tattoo is just as important as the tattooist’s work itself. If you want the colors to stay vibrant and the lines sharp, you need to take care of your healing tattoo with maximum attention.
A fresh tattoo is essentially an open wound, which is why it’s always covered with a protective film right after it’s finished. At Root Down, we use the modern self-adhesive option called ‘second skin’, and for larger designs we apply traditional cling film.
In both cases, a slightly different type of aftercare is recommended, but one basic rule always applies: before you start caring for the tattooed skin, always wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap!
Aftercare with SECOND SKIN Film
Leave the film on the tattoo for three days. If dark fluid accumulates underneath, there is no reason to worry – it is a natural process in which the body releases plasma and a small amount of ink.
How to Properly Remove the Film
After three days, gently peel off the film under running lukewarm water, moving slowly at an angle of about 90° to the skin.
Washing the Tattoo
Use an antibacterial soap, such as OTZI Easy Tattoo Soft Cleansing Gel or Protex Fresh. Gently wash the tattooed area, rinse thoroughly, and dry by dabbing with a paper towel.
Moisturizing with Cream
Apply a small amount of healing cream specifically designed for tattoo aftercare to clean skin. Suitable options include OTZI Easy Tattoo Cream, Bepanthen Plus, or Bepanthen Tattoo. These products hydrate the skin, soothe it, and support proper healing without unnecessary strain.
Keep your tattoo moisturized, but avoid overloading it with a thick layer of cream – a supply of fresh air is essential for proper healing. During the first 14 days, repeat washing and moisturizing three times a day, and for the following week, twice a day.
Aftercare with Cling Film
The First Night
Leave the film on the tattoo until the evening. Before going to bed, carefully remove it, wash the tattooed area with antibacterial soap (OTZI Easy Tattoo Soft Cleansing Gel or Protex Fresh), rinse, and dry. Re-cover the tattoo with clean film for the night.
The Second Day
In the morning, remove the film, wash the tattoo again, dry it, and let it breathe. During the day, we recommend wearing loose clothing. Wash the tattoo several times throughout the day, and in the evening apply healing cream for the first time (Easy Tattoo Cream, Bepanthen Plus, Bepanthen Tattoo) and let it absorb thoroughly.
From the Third Day Onward
Just like with Second Skin – wash and moisturize the tattoo three times a day for 14 days, then continue twice a day for the following week.
What NOT to Do While Your Tattoo Heals
- do not peel off the scabs; they will disappear on their own with washing and moisturizing
- do not bathe in the tub, swimming pools, or natural waters
- avoid the sauna and tanning beds
- do not expose the tattoo to direct sunlight for at least 4 weeks
- do not strain the tattooed area with friction or pressure
- reduce physical activity and avoid alcohol for the first 3 days
Additional Tips for Faster Healing
- make sure you get enough sleep and rest
- eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins
- stay well hydrated
- use only quality creams made for tattoo aftercare
- avoid stress and excessive strain
- listen to your body – if something irritates the tattoo, avoid it
Itching During Healing
During the final stage of healing, a tattoo usually starts to itch, which is completely natural. At this point, however, it is important not to scratch or pick at it. Scratching removes flakes of skin along with bits of color, and it can also introduce infection into the tattoo. Applying a very small amount of cream and gently massaging the spot with your finger can help. If that is not enough and the urge to scratch is too strong, you may very carefully rub over the tattoo through clothing. Never use your nails directly on the skin!
Long-Term Tattoo Care
It is important to care for your tattoo even after it has healed, as the quality of your skin directly affects how the colors and lines will look over the years. Tattooed skin is more sensitive, and without regular protection it may gradually fade or lose its sharpness.
As basic protection, we recommend using a cream with a high sun protection factor (SPF 30 or higher) whenever you spend time in the sun. This will prevent the harmful effects of UV radiation, which is the most common cause of tattoo fading.
For lasting color and a healthy look of your tattoo, we also recommend using quality body lotions or creams that keep the skin hydrated and nourished over the long term. Well-cared-for skin stays more elastic, and tattoos remain fresh and vibrant even as time goes by.
You can find all OTZI Easy Tattoo products directly at our Root Down studio. We’ll be happy to advise you on which one is best suited for your tattoo.
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