Do I have to give written tattoo aftercare?

Council byelaws often require aftercare advice to be provided. Written advice is best practice because it is clearer for the client and gives you a record you can point to later.

Tattoo Aftercare Advice & Record (Free Template)

Updated June 2026 · 4 min read

Good aftercare advice protects your work and your reputation - and logging that you gave it protects you if a client doesn't follow it. Give clients the sheet below and keep a record that you issued it.

Tattoo Aftercare Advice

Give a copy to every client and record that you issued it.

Looking after your new tattoo

Leave the covering on as advised by your artist, then wash gently with clean hands and mild fragrance-free soap.
Pat dry - don't rub - and apply a thin layer of the recommended aftercare product.
Keep it clean; wash 2–3 times a day while healing.
Don't pick, scratch or peel scabs.
Avoid swimming pools, saunas, baths and direct sun until fully healed.
Wear loose, clean clothing over the area.

Seek advice if you notice

Spreading redness, heat, swelling, pus, or a fever - these can be signs of infection. Contact your GP or pharmacist, and let your artist know.

Studio / artist
Date issued

Why logging aftercare matters

Most healing problems come down to aftercare the client controls. If you can show you provided clear written advice - and recorded that you did - you've protected yourself against an unfair complaint. It only takes a moment to log.

What to record

Which client and procedure
Which aftercare version / leaflet you gave
Format - verbal, printed or a digital link
Date and artist

InkReady's aftercare log captures this in seconds and links it to the client's consent record.

Stop juggling paper forms

InkReady stores every record securely, searchable in seconds, and builds your Inspection-Ready Pack automatically. Free for up to 20 consent records.

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Frequently asked questions

Do I have to give written tattoo aftercare?: Council byelaws often require aftercare advice to be provided. Written advice is best practice because it is clearer for the client and gives you a record you can point to later.

This guide is general information for UK tattoo studios, not legal advice. Council byelaws and Tattoo Hygiene Rating Scheme criteria vary - always confirm the exact requirements with your local authority's Environmental Health team.