A tattoo is finished in the chair, but it is made or ruined in the fortnight that follows. Most of the patchy, faded work we are asked to fix was tattooed perfectly well and then healed badly. The good news is that healing well is not complicated. It mostly comes down to keeping the skin clean, leaving it alone and being patient.
Day one: leave the wrap alone
You will leave the studio with a clear second-skin film over the tattoo. Leave it on for 24 hours. Fluid, ink and a little blood will collect underneath and it will look alarming. That is normal. The film is doing the job of a scab without the scab.
If the film leaks or lifts at the edges so that water can get in, take it off early and move to the next step.
Days two to four: wash, dry, breathe
Peel the film off slowly under warm running water. Wash the tattoo with clean hands and a fragrance-free soap, using your fingertips only. No loofah, no flannel. Pat it dry with a paper towel, never a bath towel, and let it air for ten minutes.
You can apply a second sheet of film for up to three more days, or go without. If you go without, wash twice a day and wear loose cotton over it.
Days five to ten: the itchy stage
The tattoo will tighten, flake and itch. This is the stage that tests people. Do not scratch and do not pick the flakes; they take ink with them. Slap it lightly if you must.
From now on use a rice-grain amount of balm two or three times a day. If the tattoo looks shiny or wet you have used too much. A thick layer traps heat and bacteria, which is a particular problem in Mumbai humidity.
Days ten to fourteen: cloudy, then clear
The flakes will have gone and the tattoo may look dull or milky. A thin layer of new skin is sitting over the ink. It clears over the next two to four weeks. Keep moisturising once a day.
What to avoid for the full two weeks
No swimming pools, sea or baths. Showers are fine. No direct sun and no sunscreen on the area. No gym sessions that make the tattooed skin sweat or rub against equipment. No tight sleeves, straps or waistbands across it.
When to call us
Redness that spreads after day three, heat, swelling, pus or a fever are not part of normal healing. Message the studio with a photo and see a doctor. It is rare, and it is far easier to deal with early.
Once everything has settled, come back in for your free check-up. If a line has dropped out, we will fix it.