{"id":1472,"date":"2026-07-21T12:23:16","date_gmt":"2026-07-21T10:23:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/how-to-care-for-a-new-tattoo-a-complete-guide-to-perfect-healing\/"},"modified":"2026-10-19T21:07:48","modified_gmt":"2026-10-19T19:07:48","slug":"how-to-care-for-a-new-tattoo-a-complete-guide-to-perfect-healing","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/en\/how-to-care-for-a-new-tattoo-a-complete-guide-to-perfect-healing\/","title":{"rendered":"How to care for a new tattoo: a complete guide to perfect healing"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Getting a tattoo is about much more than choosing a design. Once the session is over, an equally important part begins: <strong>the aftercare<\/strong>. A new tattoo is a small wound in the skin and needs to heal properly so that the colours stay vibrant, the lines stay crisp and the skin recovers without complications. If you&#8217;re thinking about getting a <a href=\"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/en\/fine-line-tattoos-in-bilbao\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"915\">Fine Line tattoo<\/a>, following this aftercare during healing is especially important.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this guide, we explain <strong>how to care for a new tattoo<\/strong>, what to do during the first few days and which mistakes to avoid to get the best possible result.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why is it so important to look after a new tattoo?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">During tattooing, the needles deposit ink in the dermis, passing through the outer layer of the skin. This causes normal inflammation that takes a few days to settle. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Good aftercare helps to:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Promote fast healing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prevent infection.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep the colours vibrant.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduce the formation of thick scabs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Preserve the quality of your tattoo for many years.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to care for a new tattoo step by step<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"796\" height=\"834\" src=\"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Tatuaje-recien-hecho-realizado-en-Three-Lines-Tattoo-Studio.jpg\" alt=\"How to care for a new tattoo during the healing process at Three Lines Tattoo Studio Bilbao\" class=\"wp-image-1097\" style=\"aspect-ratio:0.9544493019320265;width:431px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Tatuaje-recien-hecho-realizado-en-Three-Lines-Tattoo-Studio.jpg 796w, https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Tatuaje-recien-hecho-realizado-en-Three-Lines-Tattoo-Studio-286x300.jpg 286w, https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Tatuaje-recien-hecho-realizado-en-Three-Lines-Tattoo-Studio-768x805.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 796px) 100vw, 796px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Keep the dressing on for as long as advised<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the session ends, your tattoo artist will cover the tattoo with a protective film or a specialist dressing.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always stick to the time recommended by your tattoo artist before removing it, as it protects the area from bacteria and dirt during the first few hours.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and pH-neutral soap<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you&#8217;ve removed the dressing:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Wash your hands before touching the tattoo.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use lukewarm water.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use a pH-neutral, fragrance-free soap.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clean gently using only your hands.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don&#8217;t use sponges or rub the area.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Dry the skin properly<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After washing:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Pat dry with fresh kitchen paper, never with a towel.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dab gently.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Don&#8217;t drag the skin.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Apply the recommended cream<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once the skin is completely dry:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Apply a thin layer of the healing or moisturising cream recommended by your tattoo artist.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Don&#8217;t use too much.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your skin should be moisturised, but not saturated.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Two to four applications a day are usually enough, depending on your skin type.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Keep up the cleaning routine during the first few days<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">During the first week, it&#8217;s usually recommended to:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Wash the tattoo two or three times a day.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep the skin clean.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Apply cream after each wash.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Everyone heals differently, so it&#8217;s always best to follow the studio&#8217;s instructions.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What not to do with a new tattoo<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"781\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/tatuaje-recien-hecho-pecho-781x1024.jpg\" alt=\"New tattoo during the healing process\" class=\"wp-image-1098\" style=\"aspect-ratio:0.7625061432379704;width:431px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/tatuaje-recien-hecho-pecho-781x1024.jpg 781w, https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/tatuaje-recien-hecho-pecho-229x300.jpg 229w, https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/tatuaje-recien-hecho-pecho-768x1007.jpg 768w, https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/tatuaje-recien-hecho-pecho-1171x1536.jpg 1171w, https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/tatuaje-recien-hecho-pecho.jpg 1220w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 781px) 100vw, 781px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">During the first few weeks, avoid:<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Exposing it to the sun<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">UV rays can affect healing and cause the colours to fade.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Swimming in pools or the sea<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Avoid:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Swimming pools.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hot tubs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Beaches.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saunas.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prolonged immersion increases the risk of infection.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Picking at scabs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s normal for small scabs and flaking to appear.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Never pick at them.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They&#8217;ll fall off naturally.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Doing intense exercise in the first few days<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Excessive sweating and friction can irritate the skin and delay healing.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Wearing very tight clothing<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whenever possible, wear comfortable, breathable clothing to avoid chafing.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How long does a tattoo take to heal?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"607\" height=\"815\" src=\"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/tatuaje-tecnica-grabado-antebrazo.jpg\" alt=\"Engraving-style tattoo done at Three Lines Tattoo Studio\" class=\"wp-image-1099\" style=\"width:431px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/tatuaje-tecnica-grabado-antebrazo.jpg 607w, https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/tatuaje-tecnica-grabado-antebrazo-223x300.jpg 223w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 607px) 100vw, 607px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The surface layer usually heals within <strong>2 to 4 weeks<\/strong>, although full skin recovery can take several more weeks.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">During this time, it&#8217;s normal to notice:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Itching.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Slight flaking.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A feeling of tightness.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If symptoms such as pus, fever, severe pain or excessive swelling appear, you should see a healthcare professional.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to keep a tattoo looking great for years<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"481\" height=\"776\" src=\"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/tatuaje-cicatrizado.jpg\" alt=\"Healed tattoo done at Three Lines Tattoo Studio Bilbao&#10;\" class=\"wp-image-1100\" style=\"width:429px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/tatuaje-cicatrizado.jpg 481w, https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/tatuaje-cicatrizado-186x300.jpg 186w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 481px) 100vw, 481px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once healed:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use moisturiser regularly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Protect your tattoo with SPF 50 sunscreen whenever it&#8217;s going to be exposed to the sun.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep your skin well hydrated.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These habits help preserve the colours and definition of the design for much longer.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Frequently asked questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How often should you wash a new tattoo?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Usually two to three times a day during the first week, always following your tattoo artist&#8217;s instructions.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Is it normal for it to itch?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. Itching is part of the normal healing process. The important thing is not to scratch the area.  <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Can I shower?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. You can shower as normal, but avoid long baths during the first few weeks. <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>When can I go to the beach or the pool?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s best to wait until the tattoo has fully healed.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Trust professionals for the best result<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Aftercare is a fundamental part of the process, but it all starts with work carried out by professionals who use quality materials and follow strict hygiene measures.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At our studio, we advise you before, during and after each session so you can enjoy a tattoo that heals as well as possible and lasts. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Si quieres ver algunos de nuestros trabajos antes de reservar tu cita, puedes visitar nuestra <a href=\"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/estudio-de-tatuajes-en-bilbao\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"71\">galer\u00eda<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Thinking about getting a tattoo? <a href=\"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/en\/book-an-appointment\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"825\">Book your appointment<\/a> and we&#8217;ll be happy to help you take the next step.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Getting a tattoo is about much more than choosing a design. Once the session is over, an equally important part begins: the aftercare. A new tattoo is a small wound in the skin and needs to heal properly so that the colours stay vibrant, the lines stay crisp and the skin recovers without complications. If [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":1474,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[14],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1472","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-tattoo-tips"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1472","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1472"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1472\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1523,"href":"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1472\/revisions\/1523"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1474"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1472"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1472"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/threelinestattoostudio.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1472"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}