Introduction

Getting a tattoo is a thrilling and deeply personal experience but what comes after the tattooing session is just as important. Tattoo aftercare plays a vital role in the longevity, vibrancy, and health of your new ink. Whether you’re a first-timer or a tattoo collector, understanding proper aftercare can make the difference between a beautifully healed design and one marred by complications. For the best advice and support in tattoo aftercare in Edinburgh, look no further than Sanatorium Tattoo, where professionalism meets personalized care.

Why Tattoo Aftercare Matters

Tattoos are essentially open wounds in your skin, and like any wound, they need care to prevent infection and scarring. Good aftercare:

  • Protects against infections

  • Ensures optimal ink retention

  • Reduces healing time

  • Keeps the tattoo looking sharp and vibrant for years

Skipping aftercare or doing it incorrectly can lead to:

  • Fading and loss of detail

  • Infections or allergic reactions

  • Scabbing and ink loss

  • Permanent skin texture changes

Sanatorium Tattoo’s Aftercare Philosophy

At Sanatorium Tattoo, we believe that a tattoo’s healing is a shared responsibility between artist and client. That’s why we provide detailed, personalized aftercare instructions tailored to the tattoo’s location, size, and style. Our team ensures every client leaves fully informed on how to care for their new body art.

The First 24 Hours: Critical Healing Time

This period sets the tone for your tattoo’s entire healing process. At Sanatorium Tattoo, we apply a high-quality protective film or dressing right after the session. Here’s what to do in the first day:

  • Leave the bandage on for 4–6 hours or as advised.

  • Wash your hands before touching the tattoo.

  • Gently clean with lukewarm water and unscented antibacterial soap.

  • Pat dry with a clean paper towel—never rub.

Avoid:

  • Scratching

  • Using harsh soaps or alcohol-based cleansers

  • Wearing tight or abrasive clothing over the tattoo

Ongoing Tattoo Aftercare Steps (Days 2–14)

 Once the bandage is off and the tattoo begins healing:

  1. Clean twice daily with mild soap and lukewarm water.

  2. Apply thin layers of fragrance-free moisturizing ointment (such as Bepanthen or a tattoo-specific balm).

  3. Avoid soaking in water (no baths, swimming, or saunas).

  4. Avoid sun exposure completely during this phase.

  5. Allow peeling and scabbing to occur naturally—do not pick.

The area might itch, but resist scratching! Itching means healing.

What to Expect During Healing

 Here’s a general timeline:

  • Days 1–3: Redness, tenderness, and slight swelling

  • Days 4–7: Peeling begins, color may look dull or cloudy

  • Days 8–14: Peeling slows, new skin forms, color returns

  • Weeks 3–4: Deeper healing completes

Every person heals differently based on skin type, lifestyle, and the tattoo’s location.

Advanced Aftercare Tips from Sanatorium Tattoo

  • Sleep smart: Keep the tattoo exposed to air, avoid lying directly on it.

  • Hydration helps: Drinking water supports faster healing.

  • Loose clothing is key: Prevents irritation and rubbing.

  • Avoid workouts that cause excessive sweating over the area.

Tattoo Aftercare Products We Recommend

We only endorse aftercare products that are:

  • Fragrance-free

  • Non-comedogenic

  • Alcohol-free

  • Safe for sensitive skin

Top picks include:

  • Hustle Butter Deluxe

  • Bepanthen

  • Saniderm

  • Tattoo Goo

Ask our artists at Sanatorium Tattoo for product recommendations tailored to your skin.

Long-Term Tattoo Maintenance

 Healing doesn’t stop after the first few weeks. To keep your ink bold and beautiful:

  • Use high SPF sunscreen on the tattooed area

  • Moisturize regularly

  • Avoid harsh exfoliants over tattooed skin

  • Schedule touch-ups if necessary (most shops, including ours, offer these at discounted rates)

edinburgh tattoo studio

Common Aftercare Mistakes to Avoid

Even well-meaning clients can sabotage their healing tattoos. Here’s what not to do:

  • Applying thick ointment layers (suffocates skin)

  • Re-bandaging after initial removal (traps moisture)

  • Using petroleum jelly (can clog pores)

  • Exposing to direct sun too early (causes fading)

Tattoo Infections: What to Watch For

While rare, infections can occur. Contact your artist or doctor if you notice:

  • Excessive redness and swelling

  • Foul odor or pus

  • Fever

  • Red streaks around the tattoo

At Sanatorium Tattoo, we emphasize safety and sanitation from the start to avoid these problems altogether.

Touch-Ups: Part of the Journey

Sometimes even with perfect aftercare, small parts of a tattoo may need touch-ups. That’s normal and especially true for areas with:

  • High friction (hands, feet, inner thighs)

  • Thinner skin

  • Complex color blends

We offer affordable touch-up services to ensure your tattoo stays as intended.

Tattoo Aftercare for Different Tattoo Styles

At Sanatorium Tattoo, we specialize in various styles, each with unique healing characteristics:

  • Blackwork & Traditional: Often easier to heal due to solid fills

  • Realism & Fine Line: Require extra attention to detail and moisturizing

  • Color Tattoos: May peel more visibly and need added sun protection

Our team provides guidance specific to your tattoo style.

Sanatorium Tattoo: Edinburgh’s Trusted Name in Tattoo Aftercare

We don’t stop caring when the tattoo session ends. Our mission is to:

  • Educate clients on responsible aftercare

  • Offer curated products and advice

  • Provide open lines of communication for follow-up questions

Visit us at 8 Drummond St, Edinburgh EH8 9TU, United Kingdom to experience a full-circle approach to tattoo artistry.

Conclusion

Proper aftercare is non-negotiable if you want your tattoo to heal beautifully and last a lifetime. For those in Edinburgh, Sanatorium Tattoo is not only a top destination for stunning tattoos, but also a trusted source for aftercare education and support. From your first bandage to your final touch-up, we’ve got your back literally.

FAQs 

Q1: Can I go to the gym after getting a tattoo?

Wait at least 48–72 hours. Avoid sweating heavily over the tattooed area.

Q2: Should I re-bandage my tattoo at home?

No. Once the initial dressing is removed, keep it open to air.

Q3: Is it normal for my tattoo to peel and flake?

Yes! Peeling is a natural part of healing. Don’t pick or scratch.

Q4: How long before I can swim with a new tattoo?

Wait 3–4 weeks or until the tattoo is fully healed.

Q5: Can I use coconut oil for aftercare?

While natural, it’s not always recommended. Stick to professional products unless your artist approves it.