Tattoo Aftercare
Tattoo aftercare advice from Roman Tattooist. Learn how to care for a fresh tattoo, what to avoid and how to help your tattoo heal well.
Good tattoo work needs good aftercare. The way you care for your tattoo in the first days and weeks can affect how it heals, how it feels and how it looks once settled.
Follow Roman’s specific advice first, because different bandages, placements and skin types may need different handling. The guide below gives clients a clear, practical overview of what normally matters most during healing.
When to get medical advice
If pain gets worse instead of better, redness spreads, pus appears, you feel feverish, or the tattoo becomes increasingly hot and angry, seek medical advice promptly.
The first days matter
Clean hands first
Always wash your hands before touching the tattoo or removing any dressing.
Wash gently
Use gentle cleaning as advised. Pat dry with a clean towel or paper towel. Do not scrub.
Moisturise lightly
Use only the product Roman recommends. Too much cream can irritate the skin.
Avoid friction
Wear loose, clean clothing and avoid rubbing straps, waistbands or tight sleeves.
Do this
- Keep the tattoo clean and calm.
- Wash hands before touching it.
- Let flakes and scabs come away naturally.
- Wear loose clothing over the area.
- Message Roman if you are unsure.
Do not do this
- Do not pick, scratch or peel the tattoo.
- Do not swim or soak the tattoo while healing.
- Do not use sunbeds or strong sun exposure.
- Do not use random creams, oils or harsh products.
- Do not let pets lick or rub against the tattoo.
Common healing questions
01 Is itching normal?
Yes, itching can be part of healing. Do not scratch it. Scratching can damage the tattoo and irritate the skin.
02 Can I shower?
Usually yes, but do not soak the tattoo. Keep showers short and avoid blasting the tattoo directly with hot water.
03 Can I use any moisturiser?
Use only what Roman recommends. Some products can irritate fresh tattoos, and over-applying product can slow or complicate healing.
04 Can I go to the gym?
Avoid heavy sweating, dirty equipment and friction over the fresh tattoo during early healing. The safest answer depends on placement and session size.
05 When can I go swimming?
Avoid swimming, baths and hot tubs until the tattoo is fully healed. Soaking a fresh tattoo increases irritation and infection risk.
06 When can I go back in the sun?
Keep a fresh tattoo out of the sun while it heals. Once fully healed, use proper sun protection to help keep the tattoo looking good.
Not sure if it is normal?
Healing can feel itchy, tight, dry or flaky. But if something feels wrong, do not guess. Contact Roman for tattoo-specific advice, and contact a medical professional for signs of infection or illness.