The golden rule: 14 days out of the water
A new tattoo is an open wound for the first couple of weeks. For at least 14 days: no sea, no pool, no jacuzzi. Sea water and sand carry bacteria into the skin, chlorine dries and irritates it, and soaking pulls ink out before the skin has closed — which means patchy, faded lines. Quick showers are fine; long baths and soaking are not.
Days 1–3: the first seal
- Keep the wrap on for as long as your artist told you.
- Wash the tattoo gently twice a day with clean hands, lukewarm water and a mild, unscented soap.
- Pat it dry with a clean paper towel. Never rub.
Some redness, swelling and clear or ink-coloured fluid in the first days is normal.
Days 4–14: nourish and shed
Put on a thin layer of aftercare balm 2–3 times a day — thin enough that the skin can breathe. The tattoo will flake and itch like a healing sunburn. Don't pick, peel or scratch: pulling off flakes early can pull ink with them. Tap or gently press the skin if the itch gets bad.
Sun, heat and sweat
Phuket sun is strong all year. While the tattoo heals, keep it covered with loose, breathable clothing and stay in the shade; don't put sunscreen on an unhealed tattoo. Once it has fully healed, use SPF 50+ every day — it's the single best thing you can do to keep lines sharp and colours bright. Heat and sweat make healing harder, so rinse off after sweating, skip heavy workouts for the first few days, and sleep with the air-con on and clean sheets.
Plan your trip around it
Book your tattoo for the last 2–3 days of your holiday, so the beach, boat trips and island hopping come first — see our beach guide for where to go. Flying home with a fresh tattoo is fine: keep it clean, wear loose clothing on the plane and carry your balm.
Before your session
Healing starts with good skin. Drink plenty of water in the days before, avoid alcohol for 48 hours, don't get sunburnt in the 3 days before (we can't tattoo burned or peeling skin), and eat a proper meal 1–2 hours before you come in. The full list is on our homepage.
When to get help
Message us on WhatsApp any time with a photo if you're unsure. See a doctor if redness keeps spreading or gets hotter after day 3, if there is pus, red streaks or a bad smell, or if you have a fever.
