tattoo aftercare tips

How to keep your Tattoos looking Fresh; tattoo aftercare tips

Samantha Beedie

How to Look After Your Tattoo Long Term – Keep It Fresh for Years

Hey guys, let’s talk long-term tattoo care. You got through the healing stage like a champ, peeled like a lizard (hopefully just once), and now your tattoo is looking good. But how do you keep it that way?

A fresh tattoo is like a brand-new hoodie ... looks great at first, but if you chuck it in the dryer every week or leave it in the sun too long, it’s going to fade fast. Tattoos are the same. They live in your skin, and your skin changes over time ... so here’s how to keep your tattoos looking bold and clean for the long run.

1. Moisturise Like You Mean It

Dry skin = dull tattoo. Keep your skin hydrated to make your tattoo pop. Go for light, fragrance-free moisturisers like:

  • Aveeno Daily Moisturising Lotion
  • Coco Butter or Shea Butter
  • Pure Coconut Oil (unrefined)

Avoid anything too heavy or petroleum-based long-term ... it can clog your pores.

2. The UV Ray Truth Bomb

UV rays break down the pigment in your tattoo ... yep, science. Even black tattoos will fade to grey if you’re baking in the sun all day with no protection.

What to do:

    • Use high SPF (30+), even on cloudy days
    • Choose mineral sunscreens or tattoo-specific SPF like TattooMed
    • Reapply regularly if you’re outdoors or sweating

3. Stay Hydrated .. Your Skin Will Thank You

Moisturising helps, but drinking water from the inside out? That’s next-level care. Think of your skin like a sponge ... a hydrated one looks plump, smooth and keeps your tattoo looking sharp.

4. Swimming and Soaking .. Yes or No?

Once your tattoo’s fully healed, swimming is fine ... but long-term exposure to chlorine and salt water can dry out your skin and lead to fading.

Pro tip: Rinse off after and re-moisturise. Keep it balanced.

5. Exfoliate... Gently

Once a week, use a gentle exfoliator to remove dead skin. That’ll stop your tattoo from looking dull and patchy. But don’t scrub like you're cleaning a BBQ ... be kind to your skin.

    • Moisturise daily
    • Use SPF like it’s your religion
    • Stay hydrated
    • Don’t pick it!

Products Mentioned

Treat your tattoo like your favourite pair of shoes line.

❖ Tattoo Aftercare Products That Actually Work

Just had fresh work done? Check out my top recommended aftercare products to help your tattoo heal right and stay looking crisp. Includes balms, second skin, and more for both UK & USA.

Read the Aftercare Guide
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