Your tattoo isn’t finished when you leave the studio — proper aftercare is essential to ensure your tattoo heals well, looks sharp, and lasts for years to come. At An Tattoo in Calgary, we specialize in large-scale black and grey realism and traditional Japanese tattoos, and we want every piece to heal as beautifully as it was designed.

Here’s our expert guide on how to care for your tattoo after your session:

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1. Follow Your Artist’s Instructions

Every tattoo and every artist is different. At An Tattoo, your artist will give you specific aftercare directions based on your design, placement, and skin type. Following those instructions is more important than anything you find online.

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2. Keep the Bandage On (At First)

Your artist will cover the fresh tattoo with a protective bandage or film. Leave this on for the recommended amount of time — usually a few hours to overnight. This helps protect against bacteria and keeps the tattoo clean in its most vulnerable stage.

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3. Wash Gently & Keep It Clean

Once the bandage comes off, wash your tattoo gently with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Pat dry with a clean towel — never rub. This should be done 2–3 times per day during the first week.

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4. Moisturize, But Don’t Overdo It

Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free, tattoo-approved ointment or lotion to prevent dryness and cracking. Too much ointment can suffocate the tattoo and slow healing, so a light application is best.

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5. Avoid Picking & Scratching

As your tattoo heals, it may peel, flake, or itch — this is normal. Resist the urge to scratch or pick at scabs, as this can cause ink loss, scarring, or patchy spots.

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6. Protect It From the Sun

Sun exposure is one of the biggest enemies of tattoos. For the first few weeks, keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight entirely. Once healed, always apply sunscreen to protect your artwork and maintain vibrancy.

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7. Skip the Pool, Hot Tub, or Sauna

Until your tattoo is fully healed (usually 2–4 weeks), avoid submerging it in water. Pools, hot tubs, lakes, and baths can introduce bacteria and delay healing. Showers are perfectly fine.

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8. Be Patient

Healing takes time. Most tattoos take 2–3 weeks to surface heal and several months to fully settle into the skin. Trust the process, and take care of your skin to ensure the best long-term results.

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Final Thoughts: Your Tattoo Is an Investment

Your tattoo is more than just ink — it’s a lifelong investment in art and self-expression. Proper aftercare ensures it heals correctly, looks sharp, and lasts for decades.

At An Tattoo, our internationally recognized artists not only create award-winning work — they also guide you through every step of healing so your tattoo stays as striking as the day it was done.

Interested in working with us? Explore our artist portfolios to see examples of tattoos that have stood the test of time, and book a consultation today.

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