While itching is normal during the healing process, it can be very frustrating!
See our article How Long Should A Tattoo Itch? for more information about why this happens.
Here are some steps you can take to stop the infernal itch.
- Keep your tattoo clean - don’t let it get infected! Wash carefully with lukewarm water and a gentle unscented wash at least twice a day.
- Don’t scratch. Don’t touch. Don’t pick at it!
- Don’t wear tight clothes or rub it with a towel.
- Moisturise with a very fine layer of unscented balm for the first five days.
- After the peeling stage starts, when things can get really itchy, you can switch to a lighter cream moisturiser instead of the balm, if you prefer. It depends on your own healing process and your skin type.
- Still don’t scratch. Don’t touch. Don’t pick at it!
- Moisturise after washing and again last thing at night.
- If it is agonisingly itchy, pat or press the area gently rather than rub or scratch it.
- Press a ice-cold gel pack against the area (over clothes or cotton, not directly onto skin).
- Direct a fan onto the tattoo.
- Distract yourself! Chose something you do with your hands to stop yourself itching: drawing, cooking, knitting or making something!
Recommended tattoo aftercare products:
Balmonds Skin Salvation balm with hemp and beeswax (from £7.99 for 30ml)
Balmonds Natural Shampoo & Body Wash with calendula & nettle (£19 for 200ml)
Balmonds Daily Moisturising Cream with chamomile and shea butter (from £13.99 for 100ml)
