How to Heal Blackout, Blackwork, Ornamental, and Geometric Tattoos: The Ultimate Aftercare Guide

How to Heal Blackout, Blackwork, Ornamental, and Geometric Tattoos: The Ultimate Aftercare Guide

Tattoo aftercare is crucial to ensure your tattoo heals properly, stays vibrant, and maintains its quality for years. Whether you have a blackout tattoo, blackwork tattoo, ornamental tattoo, or geometric tattoo, following the right aftercare method is key. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for two primary aftercare methods: one for blackout and blackwork tattoos using cling film, and the other for ornamental and geometric tattoos using Tegaderm (second skin).

Why Tattoo Aftercare Matters

Proper tattoo aftercare not only ensures a smooth healing process but also preserves the intricate details and boldness of your tattoo design. Without appropriate care, tattoos can lose their vibrancy, and complications like infections or scarring can occur. This guide covers two proven methods to care for your tattoo, tailored to suit different types of tattoo styles.

Blackout and Blackwork Tattoo Aftercare: Step-by-Step Healing Instructions

Blackout and blackwork tattoos involve extensive ink coverage, requiring meticulous care during the healing process. Here’s a comprehensive aftercare routine for these tattoos using cling film:

Day 1: The Day of the Tattoo

 • Keep your blackout tattoo or blackwork tattoo covered with the protective pad applied by your artist until the next morning. This layer is essential for absorbing excess ink and plasma, initiating the healing process.

Day 2: Clean, Moisturize, and Protect

 • In the morning, remove the pad and take a gentle shower. Clean the tattoo 3-5 times using a pH-neutral soap. Avoid scrubbing; use your hands to gently wash the area.

 • Allow the tattoo to air dry for about 20 minutes.

 • Apply a thin layer of your preferred aftercare cream to keep the skin moisturized. Opt for products free from fragrances and alcohol to avoid irritation.

 • Before going to bed, wrap the tattoo in cling film. This step prevents the tattoo from sticking to fabrics and provides protection while you sleep.

Day 3: Repeat Cleaning and Wrapping

 • Remove the cling film in the morning. Repeat the cleaning process by showering and washing the tattoo 3-5 times with pH-neutral soap.

 • Let the tattoo air dry for 20 minutes before applying a thin layer of aftercare cream.

 • Wrap the tattoo in cling film again before sleeping.

Day 4 and Onwards: Continued Care

 • Starting from Day 4, discontinue using cling film. Clean the tattoo with pH-neutral soap 3 times daily and allow it to air dry for 20 minutes each time.

 • Apply a thin layer of aftercare cream 3-4 times a day to maintain moisture in the skin until the tattoo is fully healed.

Healing Tips for Blackout and Blackwork Tattoos

 • Healing Time: Blackout and blackwork tattoos typically take around 2 weeks to heal completely. During this period, it’s common to experience itching and dryness. Avoid scratching or rubbing the tattoo, as this can cause infections and interfere with proper healing.

 • Sun Protection: Keep the tattoo out of direct sunlight until it is fully healed to prevent fading and damage.

 • Avoid Water Exposure: During the healing process, refrain from swimming, using saunas, or taking baths, as excess moisture can affect healing.

 • Exercise Caution: Limit intense workouts, as excessive sweating can impact the healing of your blackwork tattoo.

Tegaderm Method for Ornamental and Geometric Tattoos

For ornamental tattoos and geometric tattoos, using the Tegaderm (or second skin) method is highly effective. Tegaderm creates a sterile, breathable, and waterproof barrier that allows your tattoo to heal safely.

How to Use Tegaderm for Tattoo Healing

 • After the tattoo session, your artist will apply the Tegaderm bandage to your new tattoo. Leave this protective layer on for 5 days. Do not lift, change, or remove the bandage during this time.

 • The Tegaderm barrier protects the tattoo from infection, irritation, and contamination while allowing the skin to breathe. It’s normal to see fluid or blood accumulate under the bandage; this is part of the healing process.

 • While the Tegaderm is on, you can continue with regular activities, including exercise. However, avoid actions that might scrape or peel off the covering.

 • Showering is safe while the Tegaderm is on, but avoid swimming or soaking in baths until the tattoo is fully healed.

Removing the Tegaderm Bandage

 • After 5 days, carefully peel off the Tegaderm. To make this process easier, take a hot shower for a few minutes to soften the adhesive. Slowly peel off the bandage to avoid skin irritation.

Post-Tegaderm Care for Ornamental and Geometric Tattoos

 • Rinse the tattoo thoroughly with antibacterial soap and warm water. Use your palm to gently remove any excess residue. Avoid using washcloths, sponges, or brushes, as these can irritate the tattoo.

 • Pat the tattoo dry with a clean towel. The skin should look shiny and dry.

 • Apply a thin layer of an unscented, colorless lotion like Jergens, Lubriderm, Nivea, or Noxzema. Continue to apply this lotion for the next 7-10 days whenever the tattoo feels tight, dry, or itchy.

 • Expect some flaky skin or peeling during this stage; this is completely normal and part of the natural healing process.

Key Tips for All Tattoo Aftercare

Proper care for your blackout, blackwork, ornamental, or geometric tattoos is crucial for vibrant, long-lasting results. Here are some additional tips to maximize your tattoo’s healing:

Final Aftercare Takeaways

 • Consistency is Key: Whether you use cling film for blackout tattoos or the Tegaderm method for other styles, consistency is the secret to a smooth healing process.

 • Avoid Scratching: Resist the urge to scratch or pick at your tattoo, even if it itches. Scratching can cause infections, scarring, and fading.

 • Sunlight Protection: Always protect your tattoo from direct sunlight during the healing process and even after it’s healed to maintain its vibrancy.

 • Stay Dry: Avoid swimming, soaking in baths, and exposure to excessive moisture to ensure proper healing.

By adhering to these aftercare methods, you’ll help your blackout, blackwork, ornamental, or geometric tattoo heal correctly, preserving its boldness and detail for years