Why Aftercare Matters
Getting a tattoo is an investment — not just financially, but creatively and emotionally. The way you care for your new tattoo in the first few weeks determines how it will look for the rest of your life. At Positive Vibrations Tattoo Studio in Portimão, we've been guiding clients through aftercare since 1984. Here's everything you need to know.
Days 1–2: The First Hours
Your tattoo is essentially an open wound during the first 48 hours. The priority is cleanliness and protection.
- Leave the wrap or bandage on for 2–4 hours, or as long as your artist advises.
- Gently remove the wrap and wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap, using clean hands only — no cloths or sponges.
- Pat dry softly with a clean paper towel. Never rub.
- Apply a very thin layer of Bepanthen cream (our preferred choice) or an unscented moisturiser.
- Let the tattoo breathe — do not re-wrap unless instructed.
Days 3–7: The Peeling Stage
During this phase, your tattoo will start to peel like a sunburn. This is completely normal and a sign that healing is underway.
- Wash gently 2–3 times a day and apply a thin layer of Bepanthen cream after each wash.
- Do not pick, scratch, or peel the skin — let it fall off naturally.
- Keep the tattoo out of direct sunlight.
- Avoid soaking in baths, swimming pools, or the sea until fully healed.
Days 8–14: The Healing Phase
The surface may look healed, but deeper layers of skin are still recovering.
- Continue applying Bepanthen cream daily — the skin may feel tight or itchy.
- Avoid intense gym sessions or activities that cause heavy sweating directly on the tattoo.
- A thin cloudy layer may appear over the ink — this is normal and will clear up.
- If redness, swelling, or discharge persists beyond day 5, contact us or a medical professional.
Weeks 3–4: Long-Term Care
Once fully healed, the real long-term protection begins.
- Always apply SPF 50+ sunscreen before sun exposure to preserve vibrancy.
- Keep the skin hydrated — well-moisturised skin holds colour better over time.
- Avoid prolonged soaking in baths or saunas, as this can fade the ink gradually.
- If you notice any areas that need touching up, book a touch-up session within 3 months.
Products to Avoid
Some common products can actually harm a healing tattoo. Never use:
- Petroleum jelly (Vaseline)
- Alcohol-based products
- Scented lotions or perfumes
- Exfoliants or scrubs
When to Contact the Studio
If at any point during healing you notice prolonged redness, swelling beyond day 3, hot skin, unusual discharge, or fever, seek medical advice immediately. When in doubt, contact Positive Vibrations — we'd rather you ask than worry alone.