How to Take Care of Your Tattoo Using Adhesive Bandage for 24 Hours

It is advisable to keep the adhesive bandage on the fresh tattoo for a maximum of 24 hours, no longer. Please remember that the first piece of adhesive bandage film can also be replaced after 3 to 4 hours; the exact time will depend on the amount of fluid the wound exudes, which will vary from person to person. We recommend changing it whenever it gets dirty, too loose, or full of liquid. New York City, 2024

Required Items: 

• Body wash with no added fragrance.

• Plastic cling wrap.

• Ointment and moisturiser with no added fragrance.

• Single-use towels

• Micropore paper tape

United States: Aquaphor • Bepanthen Tattoo • Lubriderm

Denmark: Bepanthen Tattoo • Bepanthen Salve • Lubriderm

Dubai: Bepanthen and Lubriderm

Removal

• Wash your hands.

• Adhesive bandages can be hard to pull off the skin. It is advisable to remove them in the shower after letting some water run over them, so the adhesive becomes slightly more tender, making the removal of the film easier.

• You may also use any neutral soap to rub under the film with clean fingers to help remove the adhesive.

• Wash the tattoo with soap and water, and let it dry by itself, or use only single-use towels.

• After you remove the film, apply a thin layer of moisturiser to the tattooed area. It is extremely important not to use too much moisturiser, as the tattoo must be able to breathe.

  
  

Before bed

When you are going to bed, you can wrap your tattoo with cling wrap. This is particularly recommended if you sleep on white linens or have pets. Just remember to apply a thin layer of moisturiser to the tattooed area beforehand.

One Day After Removing the Bandage

The 3-Step Exercise:

1. Wash

2. Dry

3. Apply

During the healing period, you must wash, dry, and moisturise your tattoo 3 to 5 times daily for the next 20 days.

• Wash gently using lukewarm water and a neutral soap.

• Allow to dry on its own or use a clean, single-use paper towel to pat it dry.

• Smooth on a thin layer of moisturizer.

What to Expect During Healing

Fluid and Ink

During the first days, the tattoo may release plasma, small amounts of blood, lymphatic fluid, and excess ink.

This is part of the body’s natural repair process.

The tattoo may appear slightly cloudy or rough at first. This is temporary.

Scabbing, Flaking, and Itching

Mild scabbing, peeling, and itching are normal stages of healing.

Scabs protect the wound while the skin repairs itself.

Do not scratch or pick the tattoo.

What to Avoid

• Processed Foods:

Limit processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive alcohol during the healing period. These may slow the body’s recovery process.

• Sun Exposure

Keep the tattoo out of direct sunlight for at least one month.

UV exposure can damage fresh tattoos and reduce contrast.

• Swimming

Avoid pools, oceans, lakes, saunas, and jacuzzis during healing. These environments increase the risk of irritation and infection.

• Exercise

Avoid intense exercise for at least five days to prevent excessive friction, sweat, and contamination.

If possible, train before your tattoo appointment to allow a 48-hour recovery period afterward.

• Tanning Beds

Avoid tanning beds while the tattoo is healing. UV exposure can damage the skin and affect the final result.

Tattoo Not Healing Right

Seek medical advice if you notice:

• Fever or chills

• Persistent redness that does not improve

• Fluid or pus after 2–3 days

• Swollen or inflamed skin

• Severe itching or hives

• Raised or scarred areas forming

Early attention helps prevent complications.

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Proper healing protects the clarity, contrast, and longevity of your tattoo. Follow these steps carefully and allow the skin the time it needs to recover.

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APZ is an Architectural Classic Realism tattoo artist based between New York City and Copenhagen. Inspired by Renaissance art, mythology, religion, and historical symbolism, from Christian and Catholic iconography to Buddhism, Islam, ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman traditions, as well as astrology and zodiac themes, his work translates personal stories into interconnected tattoos designed with architectural structure and long-term cohesion. Explore tattoo designs and ideas at ApzTattoo.com/designs. APZ also tattoos periodically in Dubai, UAE and Tampa, Florida.