Tattoos - What NOT to do
What Not To Do After Getting a Tattoo
A Great Tattoo Can Be Ruined By Bad Aftercare
Fresh tattoos need time and proper care to settle correctly.
Most tattoo problems don't come from the tattoo itself — they come from mistakes made during the first few weeks afterwards.
The good news is that most aftercare mistakes are completely avoidable.
Here are some of the biggest things to avoid if you want your tattoo to look its best long-term.
1. Don't Scratch or Pick Your Tattoo
As tattoos recover, itching and peeling are completely normal.
What is NOT normal:
🚫 scratching
🚫 picking flakes
🚫 pulling peeling skin
Picking at healing skin can interfere with the tattoo's appearance and leave uneven areas behind.
If your tattoo feels itchy:
• keep it lightly moisturized
• gently tap the area instead
• avoid touching unnecessarily
2. Don't Over-Moisturise
One of the biggest myths in tattoo aftercare is: "More cream = better healing."
Too much product can make tattoos feel heavy, overly moist and uncomfortable.
Instead:
✅ apply thin layers
✅ allow skin to breathe
✅ moisturise consistently, not excessively
The goal is balanced hydration.
3. Don't Expose Fresh Tattoos To Direct Sun
Fresh tattoos and UV exposure do not mix well.
Too much sun during recovery can:
• irritate sensitive skin
• dry the tattoo out
• affect colour vibrancy
For the first few weeks:
☀ keep tattoos covered outdoors whenever possible.
4. Don't Go Swimming Too Early
Pools, oceans, spas and long baths should be avoided while tattoos are recovering.
Soaking fresh tattoos for long periods can:
• irritate skin
• soften peeling skin too early
• expose the area to bacteria and chemicals
Quick showers are fine. Long soaking is not.
5. Don't Wear Tight Clothing Over The Tattoo
Fresh tattoos need minimal friction while recovering.
Tight clothing rubbing against the area can:
• irritate skin
• increase discomfort
• interfere with peeling skin
Loose breathable fabrics are usually the safest option during the first couple of weeks.
6. Don't Ignore Dryness
Dry tattooed skin often feels:
• tight
• itchy
• uncomfortable
Keeping the area lightly hydrated helps maintain comfort while the skin barrier recovers.
Consistency matters more than applying large amounts at once.
7. Don't Use Harsh Skincare Products
Fresh tattoos are sensitive.
Avoid using:
🚫 exfoliants
🚫 strong acids
🚫 alcohol-heavy products
🚫 heavily fragranced lotions
Gentle skincare is usually best during tattoo recovery.
8. Don't Exercise Excessively Straight Away
Heavy sweating and friction can irritate fresh tattoos.
This is especially important for tattoos near:
joints
waistbands
shoes
gym equipment contact areas
Light movement is generally fine, but intense training immediately after a tattoo may increase irritation.
9. Don't Panic During Peeling
Many people think their tattoo is being damaged when it starts flaking.
In most cases:
✔ light peeling is normal
✔ dullness is normal
✔ temporary cloudiness is normal
The appearance usually improves as fresh skin settles.
Patience is part of the process.
10. Don't Stop Aftercare Too Early
A tattoo may look healed before the skin has fully settled underneath.
Continuing light moisturising for several weeks helps keep tattooed skin comfortable and looking healthy long-term.
Good aftercare doesn't stop the moment peeling ends.
The Best Tattoo Aftercare Is Usually Simple
The best thing you can do for a fresh tattoo is keep things simple:
• gentle cleansing
• balanced hydration
• patience
• consistency
Trying too many products or overcomplicating the routine often causes more problems than it solves.
Final Thoughts
Tattoo aftercare is less about doing everything perfectly and more about avoiding the common mistakes that interfere with recovery.