Aloha! Welcome to Aloha Tattoo in Waikiki, Oahu—your destination for vibrant and meaningful tattoos. Our studio is committed to delivering not only exceptional art but also ensuring your tattoo heals beautifully and retains its quality.

Tattoo Healing Stages

Most clients go through 5 stages of healing on their skin. Results may vary depending on the person.

• Day 1 - Inflammation The first day after getting your tattoo, you might notice some redness and swelling. This is a normal part of the healing process as your body begins to heal the inked area.

• Day 2 to 3 - Ink, Plasma, and Blood Discharge It's normal to see some discharge of ink, plasma, and even a little blood. This is your body clearing out excess fluids and beginning to mend the skin.

• Day 4 to 6 - Dry, Tight, Skin. During this period, you should start to notice a dry, tight skin that is characteristic of the initial tattoo healing stages. You may also see some skin flaking, which is a good indication that the tattoo is already starting to heal. The redness and soreness should also start to diminish.

• Day 7 to 14 - More Itching and Scabbing During this period, expect some itching and scabbing as the tattoo heals. It's important not to scratch or peel the scabs to avoid damaging the design and preventing proper healing.

• Day 15 - Dull and Faded Tattoo Your tattoo may look a bit dull and the colors less vibrant at this stage. This is a normal part of the healing process and the skin recovering.



What to Use for Tattoo Aftercare

Our Recommendation:

• Lotions for Tattoo Aftercare: Opt for gentle, fragrance-free lotions to keep the area hydrated. Avoid products containing alcohol or perfumes that can irritate the skin.
• Coconut Oil for Tattoo Aftercare: Coconut oil can be beneficial due to its moisturizing and antibacterial properties. A thin layer can help soothe the tattooed area and prevent dryness.

Keeping your new tattoo properly moisturized is key for healthy healing. When it comes to lotions, stick to gentle, fragrance-free varieties to avoid irritating the tender tattooed skin. Products containing alcohol or perfumes can cause excessive dryness and discomfort, so it's best to steer clear during the healing process. A great natural option is coconut oil - its moisturizing properties help keep the area hydrated while its antibacterial benefits can ward off infection. Just use a thin layer of coconut oil to soothe the tattoo and lock in moisture without oversaturating the skin. Be sure to ask your tattoo artist for their recommended aftercare routine and product suggestions, but these tips should help keep your new ink looking vibrant!

Things to Avoid During the Healing Process

Our Recommendation:

• Keep the tattoo out of direct sunlight to prevent fading from UV exposure

• Avoid submerging the tattoo in water like pools or ocean until fully healed

• Steer clear of tight clothing over tattooed area to minimize irritation

Proper aftercare doesn't stop at just keeping your new tattoo clean and moisturized. There are a few other crucial steps to ensure optimal healing and long-lasting vibrancy. Direct sunlight can cause premature fading, so keep that fresh ink covered or out of the sun's rays. You'll also want to avoid submerging the tattoo in water from pools, hot tubs, the ocean, and the like until it's completely healed over, usually after 2-4 weeks. The chemicals, salt, and bacteria in these waters can lead to infection. Finally, go easy on that new tattoo by steering clear of tight clothing that could rub against and irritate the area. Loose, breathable fabrics are best to allow the skin to properly heal without excessive friction and sweat buildup. Follow these recommendations, and your beautiful body art will stay looking its best for years!

Long-Term Tattoo Aftercare Tips

Our Recommendation:

• Clean tattoo 2-3x daily with mild soap and lukewarm water
• Moisturize regularly, especially in dry conditions/after sun
• Use high-SPF sunscreen when outdoors to prevent fading

Proper tattoo aftercare is essential for allowing your new ink to heal beautifully and stay vibrant for years to come. First and foremost, keep that tattoo clean by gently washing it 2-3 times per day with a fragrance-free mild soap and lukewarm water. Be sure to pat it dry - don't rub.

Moisturizing is also key, so apply a thin, unscented moisturizer regularly, especially if it's dry out or you've had sun exposure that day. 

Speaking of sun, it's one of your fresh tattoo's biggest enemies! UV rays can cause premature fading and blurring of the design. Once your tattoo is fully healed (usually 2-4 weeks), never let it see the light of day without a broad spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. Reapply sunscreen faithfully anytime you'll be outdoors for extended periods. With proper cleaning, moisturizing, and sun protection, your tattoo will maintain those vibrant colors for years on end.

Conclusion

Remember, a tattoo is more than just a decoration—it's a lasting memory of your travels. This piece of art will accompany you for life, so it's essential to take good care of it to ensure it remains vibrant for years to come. If you're visiting Hawaii and considering getting your first or next tattoo, Aloha Tattoo is your go-to destination. With top-tier artists known for their exceptional skill, we welcome you at our five locations across Oahu. Whether you find yourself near our studios at the Waikiki Hilton, in Wahiawa, or in Kailua, make your Hawaiian vacation unforgettable. Schedule your free consultation at Aloha Tattoo today and take a piece of the islands home with you.