Days 1–2
Protect the fresh treatment
Expect mild redness, tenderness or swelling. Keep the area clean and dry, touch it only with freshly washed hands, and use only the aftercare product Ash recommends.
Healing beautifully
Cosmetic tattoo aftercare
Gentle, consistent care protects your skin and helps your cosmetic tattoo heal with smooth, even colour. Always follow the personalised instructions given at your appointment.
Your healing timeline
Days 3–7
Let flaking happen naturally
Colour may look darker before light flaking begins. Do not pick, scratch or exfoliate—the pigment needs time to settle evenly beneath the skin.
Weeks 2–4
Allow the colour to settle
The treated area can temporarily look lighter or patchy as the skin renews. Brows usually soften by week four; lip colour continues developing for longer.
Weeks 6–8
Review the healed result
Your true healed colour is now visible. Attend your perfecting appointment so Ash can assess retention and refine colour, shape or balance where needed.
Brows & eyeliner
- Avoid makeup, cleansers and active skincare directly on the treated area until flaking has finished.
- Keep brows and eyeliner away from steam, saunas, swimming and heavy sweating for at least 7–10 days.
- Sleep on a clean pillowcase and avoid pressing your face into the pillow.
- Once healed, use daily SPF around the area to protect the pigment from premature fading.
Lip blush & neutralisation
- Use the recommended balm sparingly and keep lips clean while they peel.
- Drink through a straw and avoid spicy, salty or very hot foods while lips feel tender.
- Do not pull loose skin. Let all peeling release naturally to support even colour retention.
- If you are prone to cold sores, follow the prevention advice provided by your healthcare professional.
When to contact us
Mild tenderness and flaking are expected. Contact Ash if you are unsure about healing or notice anything outside the aftercare guidance. Seek prompt medical advice for severe swelling, spreading redness, heat, pus or worsening pain.