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The first two weeks with a new tattoo

Alexandra S.
September 22, 2026 · 1 min read
The hug, upper arm tattoo by Alexandra S.

Thin lines are delicate on purpose, which also means they have less room for mistakes while they heal. The first two weeks decide how crisp they stay for years.

Day one

Keep the film on for as long as I told you, usually a few hours. Wash it gently with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free soap, then pat it dry with a clean paper towel.

Less is more. A thin layer of balm, not a thick one.

The routine

  1. Wash twice a day with clean hands.
  2. Dry by patting, never rubbing.
  3. Balm: a thin layer, until it looks matte again.
  4. Wait: no scratching, even when it itches.

What to avoid

Sun, sea, pools and saunas for two weeks. Tight sleeves over fresh ink. Picking at flakes, which can pull ink out with them.

Some redness and swelling in the first days is normal. If it gets hotter, more painful or spreads after day three, see a doctor and message me.