Different Ways to Heal Your Tattoo: A Simple Aftercare Guide

Different tattoo artists recommend different healing techniques based on their experience, your skin type, and the style or placement of the tattoo. Some prefer a more natural approach, while others suggest structured aftercare routines using specific products. There isn’t just one “correct” way to heal a tattoo — the key is keeping the area clean, protected, and lightly moisturised while your skin recovers.

It’s also important to remember that your body is what actually heals the tattoo. Aftercare products don’t do the healing for you — they simply support the process by keeping the skin clean, calm, and comfortable while your body does the work.

At CoolSoothe, our aftercare range was created with this in mind. We focus on natural, gentle ingredients that support the skin without suffocating it or overwhelming it with harsh, unnecessary chemicals.

1) Wash & Moisturise (The Most Common Method)

This is the approach many artists recommend.

How it works:

  • Gently clean the tattoo 2–3 times a day

  • Pat dry

  • Apply a thin layer of balm to keep skin hydrated

We created our soap bars and foam cleansers to clean the skin without being harsh or drying, which is especially important during the first week. Our balm is designed to lightly protect and moisturise while still allowing the skin to breathe, supporting your body’s natural healing process.

Best for:
Most skin types and tattoo sizes.

2) Dry Healing (Minimal Products)

Some people prefer to use fewer products and let the skin heal more naturally.

How it works:

  • Clean the tattoo regularly

  • Avoid moisturising unless the skin becomes too dry

Even with dry healing, keeping the area clean is essential. Gentle tattoo-specific soaps can help remove excess ink and bacteria without irritating sensitive skin, while still allowing the skin to heal at its own pace.

Best for:
Small tattoos or very sensitive skin.

3) Wet Healing (Light Moisture Support)

This method focuses on keeping the tattoo lightly hydrated throughout the healing process.

How it works:

  • Clean the tattoo daily

  • Apply a small amount of balm throughout the day

Our balm was developed to soothe dryness and reduce tightness without creating a thick barrier. The idea is to support healing skin, not smother it — letting your body do the work while keeping the area comfortable.

Best for:
Colour tattoos, dry skin, or areas prone to cracking.

4) Second Skin Protection (Early Stage Healing)

Many artists now use protective film straight after tattooing.

How it works:

  • A breathable second skin is placed over the tattoo

  • Left on for several days to protect from friction and bacteria

We offer second skin as part of our range because it helps protect the tattoo during the most sensitive early stage, creating a clean environment where the skin can begin repairing itself naturally. Once removed, people usually move to a gentle wash-and-balm routine.

Best for:
Large tattoos and high-movement areas.

Why We Designed Our Products This Way

Your body already knows how to heal a tattoo. Our role is simply to support that process.

That’s why our products are made to:

  • Clean the skin gently without stripping it

  • Keep the area lightly moisturised, not smothered

  • Use natural ingredients that support the skin instead of overwhelming it

  • Avoid heavy, harsh, or unnecessary manmade additives

From our soap bars and foam cleansers to our balm and second skin, everything is designed to work with your body — not against it.

Signs Your Tattoo Is Healing Properly

Most tattoos follow a similar pattern:

  • Days 1–3: Redness and tenderness

  • Days 3–7: Peeling and light scabbing

  • Days 7–14: Itching and flaking

  • Weeks 2–4: Skin settles and colour softens

This is normal. Avoid picking or scratching the area.

Final Thoughts

There’s no single perfect healing method for everyone. Some artists recommend dry healing, others prefer moisturised healing, and many use second skin in the early days. What matters most is keeping the tattoo clean, protected, and comfortable while your body does what it naturally does best — heal.

With a simple routine and gentle, natural aftercare products, you can support the process without suffocating the skin, helping your tattoo settle cleanly and look its best for years to come.