Tattoo Aftercare: how to take care of your new tattoo

Getting a tattoo is a meaningful moment.
Something personal. Something permanent.

But once you walk out of the shop, another important part of the process begins: healing.

How you care for your tattoo in the days and weeks after your appointment will influence how beautifully it heals — and how it looks years from now.

Here’s our honest, gentle guide to tattoo aftercare.

Why tattoo aftercare matters

A fresh tattoo is essentially an open wound. During the tattoo process, tiny punctures are made in the skin to deposit ink. Your body now needs time — and care — to repair itself.

Proper aftercare:

• Reduces the risk of infection

• Minimizes redness and irritation

• Prevents excessive dryness

• Helps your tattoo heal clean and clear

• Supports long-term vibrancy and longevity

Most tattoos heal on the surface within 3–4 weeks, but deeper layers of skin take longer. Consistency matters more than perfection.

Why we choose Hustle Butter

In our studio, we recommend Hustle Butter for aftercare — not because it’s trendy, but because we’ve seen how well it works.

Here’s why we stand behind it:

100% vegan and natural
No petroleum, no animal by-products, no parabens.

Light and easy to apply
It spreads smoothly without feeling heavy or suffocating on the skin.

Nourishing and soothing
Ingredients like shea butter, mango butter, and coconut oil help keep the skin soft and supported during healing.

Helps preserve color
Well-hydrated skin allows blacks to stay deep and colors to heal brighter.

Multi-purpose
Once your tattoo is healed, you can keep using it as a body butter, hand cream, or even lip balm.

It’s not just about the tattoo — it’s about caring for your skin.

Step-by-step tattoo aftercare

Aftercare doesn’t need to be complicated. It just needs to be consistent.

1. Gently clean your tattoo

After removing the wrap or second skin (according to your artist’s instructions), wash your tattoo with:

• Clean hands

• Lukewarm water

• A mild, fragrance-free soap (if needed)

Pat dry with paper towel. Do not rub.

2. Apply a thin layer of Hustle Butter

Less is more. A thin layer is enough.

Apply 3–4 times a day, depending on how dry your skin feels.

If your tattoo looks shiny or greasy, you’re probably using too much.

3. Let it breathe

Wear loose clothing to avoid friction.

Try to avoid:

• Tight jeans

• Rough fabrics

• Wool

• Fleece

Your skin needs air to heal calmly.

4. Don’t scratch or pick

Peeling and light scabbing are normal during healing.

Let flakes and scabs fall off naturally.
Picking can pull pigment out and cause scarring.

5. Avoid sun, sauna, and swimming

For the first 3–4 weeks, avoid:

• Direct sunlight

• Swimming pools

• Saunas

• Baths

Even after healing, sun protection is essential. UV exposure fades tattoos faster than anything else.

When is your tattoo fully healed?

Surface healing usually takes 3–4 weeks.

In closing

Aftercare isn’t about strict rules.
It’s about attention.

Attention to your skin.
Attention to the artwork placed with care.
Attention to something you chose to carry with you.

If you have questions about your healing, or if something feels uncertain — send us a message or stop by.

We’re always happy to take a look.