Tattoo aftercare in Malta: sun, sea and healing
A new tattoo takes about two to three weeks to heal on the surface and a few weeks more underneath. In Malta the two biggest risks are the sun and the sea: keep a fresh tattoo out of direct sun and out of the sea and pools until it has fully healed, usually at least two weeks.
01The first 24 hours
Leave the wrap on for as long as you were told on the day. Then wash the tattoo gently with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free soap, and pat it dry with a clean paper towel. Don't rub it.
02Weeks one and two
Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free moisturiser two or three times a day. It will itch and flake as it heals; don't pick or scratch it, and let the flakes come away on their own. Wear loose, clean clothing over it.
03Sea, pools and sun
No swimming in the sea, pools or hot tubs until the tattoo has fully healed, usually at least two weeks. Keep it out of direct sun while it heals, and cover it with loose clothing rather than sunscreen, which can irritate broken skin.
04Once it's healed
Use SPF 30 or higher on the tattoo every time it's in the sun, which in Malta is most of the year. Sun is the main reason tattoos fade and blur, colour and fine lines most of all.
When to get in touch
Some redness and tenderness for the first few days is normal. If the redness spreads, the area gets hotter or more painful after the first few days, or you notice pus or a fever, see a doctor straight away. For anything else you're unsure about while it heals, send a DM.