The Do’s & Don’ts of Tattoo Aftercare: Avoid These Common Mistakes

Anonymous February 17, 2025
The Do’s & Don’ts of Tattoo Aftercare: Avoid These Common Mistakes

Why Tattoo Aftercare Matters

Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience, but how you care for it afterward determines how well it heals and how long it stays vibrant. Ignoring proper tattoo aftercare can lead to fading, infections, or even scarring.

To keep your tattoo bold and healthy, follow these do’s and don’ts to ensure proper healing.


✅ DO: Wash Your Tattoo Gently

Why? A fresh tattoo is an open wound, and keeping it clean prevents infections and promotes healing.

✔ Use lukewarm water and a fragrance-free, mild soap
✔ Pat dry with a clean, soft towel (never rub!)
✔ Wash your tattoo twice a day to remove excess plasma and bacteria


🚫 DON’T: Use Harsh Soaps or Scrub Your Tattoo

Why? Strong soaps and scrubbing can strip away essential moisture and slow down healing.

❌ Avoid exfoliating washes, alcohol-based cleansers, and heavily scented soaps
❌ Never use loofahs or rough towels—this can cause irritation and scabbing


✅ DO: Keep Your Tattoo Moisturized

Why? Hydrated skin heals faster and helps prevent cracking and fading.

✔ Use a natural tattoo balm with shea butter, coconut oil, and vitamin E
✔ Apply a thin layer—too much product can suffocate your skin
✔ Moisturize 2-3 times a day to keep your tattoo from drying out

💡 Pro Tip: WUNDR Tattoo Balm is 100% natural, lightweight, and fast-absorbing, perfect for hydrating and brightening tattoos.


🚫 DON’T: Use Petroleum-Based Ointments

Why? Petroleum jelly creates a thick barrier that traps bacteria and prevents proper healing.

❌ Avoid Vaseline and petroleum-based ointments—they clog pores and slow healing
❌ Too much moisture can cause scabbing and ink loss


✅ DO: Protect Your Tattoo from the Sun

Why? UV rays are the #1 cause of tattoo fading.

✔ Keep your tattoo covered when outdoors during healing
✔ Once healed, apply SPF 30+ sunscreen to prevent ink fading


🚫 DON’T: Expose Your Tattoo to Direct Sunlight

Why? The sun breaks down tattoo pigment, causing it to fade faster.

❌ Avoid tanning beds—they cause severe tattoo fading and damage
❌ Even healed tattoos need UV protection—always apply sunscreen!


✅ DO: Wear Loose, Breathable Clothing

Why? Tight clothing can rub against your tattoo, causing irritation and delaying healing.

✔ Choose soft, breathable fabrics to prevent irritation
✔ Allow your tattoo to breathe—this speeds up healing


🚫 DON’T: Pick or Scratch Your Tattoo

Why? Peeling and scabbing are normal, but picking at your tattoo can remove ink and cause scars.

❌ Don’t scratch or peel off flakes—let them fall naturally
❌ If itching is unbearable, apply a light layer of tattoo balm to soothe the skin


✅ DO: Stay Hydrated & Eat Skin-Boosting Foods

Why? Healthy skin = better tattoo healing!

✔ Drink plenty of water to keep skin hydrated
✔ Eat foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E to support skin healing


🚫 DON’T: Swim or Soak Your Tattoo

Why? Prolonged water exposure can cause ink to fade and increase infection risk.

❌ Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, and baths for at least 2-3 weeks
❌ Showers are fine—just keep them short and avoid direct water pressure on your tattoo


Final Thoughts: Take Care of Your Tattoo the Right Way

Your tattoo is an investment, and the way you care for it affects how long it stays bold and vibrant. Following these do’s and don’ts will help your tattoo heal properly, prevent fading, and keep your ink looking fresh for years.

Protect Your Ink with WUNDR Tattoo Balm!

✔ 100% natural & vegan
✔ Hydrates, heals, and enhances tattoo vibrancy
✔ Fast-absorbing & non-greasy formula

🖤 Give your tattoo the care it deserves!