Tattoo Aftercare with Cora Mylene Tattoos
Your skin just did something brave.
A fresh tattoo is controlled trauma — and the way you care for it will shape how it heals, how it looks, and how long it lasts. I'm here to walk you through every step: from day one to long-term care.
Important: Always follow the instructions I gave you during your appointment or via email/text. If anything in this guide differs from that, follow my direct advice — it’s personalized for your skin, your placement, and your bandage type.
If anything feels off or you're unsure, reach out to me directly. Please don’t crowdsource healing advice online — every tattoo is different.
Quick Start: First 24 Hours
If you’re wearing a film bandage (Saniderm, DermShield):
❊ Keep it on for the full time I recommended (typically 3–4 days, up to 7).
❊ If it lifts, leaks, or peels early, contact me or switch to no-film care.
❊Totally normal: A clear or slightly inky fluid pocket under the film.
❊ Shower normally — but no soaking (baths, pools, hot tubs).
If you left without film (or removed it already):
❊ Gently wash 2–3×/day with warm water and a mild, unscented soap.
❊ Pat dry with a clean towel (no rubbing).
❊Wear loose, clean clothing that won’t stick or rub.
Film Bandage Aftercare
While the film is on:
❊Showers are fine, but don’t soak or sun-expose the tattoo.
❊ Skip high-sweat workouts.
❊ Fluid buildup is expected — don’t press it out.
When removing the film:
Peel gently under warm water. Baby oil, lotion, or coconut oil can help.
❊ Wash the area thoroughly with warm water and mild soap.
❊ Let the skin breathe for 24 hours before applying lotion.
No-Film Aftercare
(or After Film Removal)
❊ Wash gently 2×/day for the first 3–5 days.
❊ Pat dry with a clean towel.
❊ Apply a whisper-thin layer of fragrance-free, non-petroleum lotion if the skin feels dry, tight, or itchy.
❊ Avoid heavy ointments unless I specifically recommend them.
My go-to products:
❊ Soap: Dial (gentle, antimicrobial)
❊ Lotion: Hustle Butter, Burt’s Bees Hand Salve (light feel)
Looking for simple, reliable tattoo care tips? These products are a great place to start.
Healing Timeline: What to Expect
Healing varies by skin type and placement, but here’s what most clients experience:
Days 0–3
❊ Tender, slightly red or warm. Light oozing is normal.
❊ Keep clean. Avoid friction, sweating, or soaking.
Week 2
❊ Peeling slows. Colors may look dull — totally normal.
Days 4–7
❊ Peeling or itching may begin — don’t scratch or pick.
❊ Skin may feel dry or tight.
Weeks 3–4
❊ Skin finishes settling. Surface looks matte and calm.
❊ Safe to resume regular sun care and skincare routines.
Hard “No’s” During Healing
🚫 No soaking (baths, pools, lakes, hot tubs, saunas)
🚫 No tanning or unprotected sun exposure
🚫 No scratching or picking
🚫 No tight or rubbing clothes
🚫 No peroxide, bleach, or alcohol-based products
🚫 No sunscreen until the surface is fully healed
✅ Use SPF 30+ after healing to prevent fading
✅ Still unsure? Ask me. That’s what I’m here for.
Stick closely to these tattoo care instructions — they reduce risk and support a beautiful heal.
Frequently asked questions
-
Usually 2–4 weeks, depending on how your tattoo heals. I’ll confirm timing based on your tattoo.
-
Only once the surface is fully healed. Until then, keep it covered.
-
That’s normal. If it leaks or lifts, contact me for next steps.
-
A cool (not cold) compress and a light layer of gentle moisturizer can soothe it. Don’t scratch.
Long-Term Tattoo Care
❊Apply SPF 30+ daily to keep your ink vibrant.
❊ Moisturize regularly with fragrance-free lotion.
❊ Avoid exfoliants, retinoids, or harsh products directly on the tattoo unless cleared by a professional.
The right care helps preserve crisp lines and vivid color long after the tattoo healing process is complete
Free Touch-Ups
I offer free touch-ups within 6 months for minor fixes or normal settling.
Most of the time, my designs heal beautifully without needing one. But if something doesn’t settle quite right—like a small area that fades too quickly—I’ll absolutely stand by the work. Just reach out within 6 months of your session, and we’ll figure out next steps together.
Keep in mind: major reworks, design edits, or changes after full healing may be considered new work and priced accordingly. My goal is to make sure your tattoo feels complete and vibrant, and you feel supported the whole way through.
Ready to Wear Your Story?
Ink with Intention. Click below to start the conversation.
the studio
My private studio is part of a community nestled amongst peaceful farms and horse stables in the scenic Hill Country, and yet a quick, convenient drive from Highways 290 and 1826. The community is made up of different artisans and small businesses and the studio is designed to feel private, safe, and peaceful.
Find My Austin Tattoo Shop Location Here
II'm located just outside of North Austin in a quiet, plant-filled space near between in southwest Austin, just east of Dripping Springs and north of Driftwood. Sessions are by appointment only.
Cora Mylene Tattoo Studio
12345 Old Fitzhugh Rd #8, Austin TX 78737
Studio Hours
Wednesday – Saturday, 12 pm to 6 pm
once you’re there
look for the giant hammer mailbox, park out front, and when you cross the rope just walk straight ahead until you see my studio to your right!
