AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS

Pinky Darling Tattoo – Citrine Luna Ltd

Good aftercare = a beautifully healed tattoo.
Here’s how to take care of yours.

Immediately After Your Appointment

Your tattoo will be wrapped before you leave the studio.
Leave the wrap on for the recommended time we discuss together (usually a few hours).

Once removed:

  • Wash hands thoroughly

  • Gently cleanse the tattoo with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap

  • Pat dry — don’t rub

  • Apply a thin layer of your aftercare product

What to Expect

It’s normal to experience:

  • Redness

  • Tenderness

  • Mild swelling

  • Peeling

  • Itching

  • Light scabbing

This usually settles within 3–7 days.

Ongoing Care (Days 1–14)

  • Wash the tattoo gently once or twice a day

  • Apply a thin layer of aftercare twice a day or when the skin feels dry or tight

  • Avoid heavy moisturisers or petroleum jelly

  • Do NOT scratch, pick, or peel

  • Wear loose clothing on the area

Keep Your Tattoo Clean

Avoid:

  • Gym equipment touching the area

  • Pets on the tattoo

  • Dirty bedding

  • Fake tan

  • Heavy sweating on fresh tattoos

Good hygiene = good healing.

Things to Avoid While Healing

❌ Swimming (pools, sea, baths, hot tubs)
❌ Sunbeds or direct sun exposure
❌ Saunas and steam rooms
❌ Heavy exercise that stretches or rubs the area
❌ Submerging the tattoo
❌ Scratching or exfoliating

Long-Term Care

Once healed:

  • Always use SPF 30+ or higher on your tattoo

  • Keep the skin moisturised

  • Avoid prolonged sun exposure
    Sunlight is the biggest cause of fading, especially for fine line and dotwork styles.

If You Have Concerns

If your tattoo doesn’t seem to be healing normally or you're worried about something, please contact me - pinky@blackhopetattoo.com
Photos are always helpful so I can advise you quickly.

If you notice symptoms like spreading redness, excessive swelling, heat, or discharge, seek advice from a healthcare professional, infections are rare but possible.

Your Final Results

Your tattoo will look its best once fully healed (usually 4–8 weeks).
If a touch-up is needed, I’ll happily advise and book you in if appropriate.