How Often Should You Wash a New Tattoo?
If you’ve just gotten a tattoo, one of the first questions that comes up is: “How often should I wash it?” The answer matters — because too much washing can dry out your skin, while too little can leave your tattoo vulnerable to bacteria.
The Ideal Washing Routine
For most tattoos, the sweet spot is:
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2–3 times per day during the first week (morning, evening, and if needed after sweating or dirty environments).
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Once or twice daily after the first week until fully healed (around 2–3 weeks).
This keeps your tattoo clean and supported while avoiding over-washing that strips away natural oils.
Why Soap Choice Matters
Washing with the wrong product can undo your efforts. Harsh body washes or foaming cleansers can:
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Dry out the skin and make it itchier
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Cause excess peeling and flaking
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Leave residue behind that slows healing
A gentle, fragrance-free bar soap is the best choice because it:
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Cleans without stripping natural oils
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Soothes irritation
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Delivers nutrients that help skin heal smoothly
💬 “Immediately after I started using the soap, not only did I have no itching, but my tattoo didn’t dry out after washing.”
How to Wash a Tattoo the Right Way
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Wash your hands first.
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Lather the bar in your hands to activate it and remove the surface layer.
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Glide the bar gently over your tattoo. The soothing glide helps calm irritation and ensures a thorough cleanse.
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Rinse with lukewarm water.
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Pat dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
Pro tip: Store your bar in a draining soap dish, away from shower spray, so it stays clean and lasts longer.
FAQs: Tattoo Washing Frequency
Q: Can I wash my tattoo too often?
Yes. Washing more than 3–4 times daily can dry the skin and slow healing.
Q: What if I sweat a lot or work in a dirty job?
It’s fine to wash an extra time when needed, just be gentle and moisturize lightly afterward.
Q: How long should I keep using tattoo-safe soap?
At least until your tattoo is fully healed. Many collectors keep using it long-term because it’s gentler than regular body wash.
The Bottom Line
Washing your tattoo the right way makes all the difference. Aim for 2–3 times a day with a gentle, fragrance-free bar soap that cleans while soothing. With the right balance, your tattoo heals smoother, faster, and with less irritation.
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