Your tattoo is a permanent piece of art — and like any art, it needs to be cared for. How you treat your tattoo in the first few weeks determines how it heals and how it looks for the rest of your life. Follow these instructions carefully.
Timeline
Healing Phases
01
Day 1–3: The Healing Begins
Leave the bandage/wrap on for 2–4 hours (or as instructed by your artist).
Remove bandage gently with clean hands. Rinse with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap.
Pat dry with a clean paper towel — never rub.
Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion or healing ointment (Aquaphor, Hustle Butter, or Lubriderm).
Repeat washing and moisturizing 2–3 times per day.
02
Day 4–14: The Peel
Your tattoo will begin to peel and flake — this is completely normal.
DO NOT pick, scratch, or peel the skin. Let it fall off naturally.
Continue washing 2x daily and moisturizing with a thin layer of lotion.
The tattoo may look dull or faded during this phase — it will brighten up.
Avoid soaking in water (no pools, hot tubs, baths, or ocean).
03
Week 3–4: Surface Healing
The outer skin will look healed, but deeper layers are still healing.
Continue moisturizing daily.
You can now shower normally, but avoid direct high-pressure water on the tattoo.
Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen if the tattoo will be exposed to sun.
Avoid tanning beds and prolonged sun exposure.
04
Month 2–6: Full Healing
Your tattoo is fully healed on the surface but the deeper dermis may still be settling.
Moisturize regularly to keep the skin supple and the ink vibrant.
Always apply sunscreen before sun exposure — UV is the #1 enemy of tattoo longevity.
If you notice any issues (excessive fading, raised areas, unusual redness), contact your artist.
Touch-ups are normal and included free within 30 days at Blindside.
Avoid These
What NOT To Do
✗Pick or scratch the peeling skin
✗Soak in pools, hot tubs, ocean, or baths
✗Expose to direct sunlight without SPF
✗Use scented lotions or soaps on fresh tattoo
✗Shave over the healing tattoo
✗Wear tight clothing over the tattoo
✗Work out excessively in the first 48 hours
✗Apply ice directly to the tattoo
Our Promise
Free Touch-Ups Within 30 Days
Every tattoo done at Blindside comes with a free touch-up within 30 days of your session, provided you followed proper aftercare. We stand behind our work.
Touch-up must be within 30 days of original session