Tattoo Aftercare Essentials

The First Few Hours — A Clean Start Is Everything

As soon as your tattoo session wraps up, your artist will cover the area with a sterile, breathable film or tattoo wrap — not just for show, but as your first barrier against the outside world. This layer plays a critical role in protecting your new artwork from bacteria, dust, and friction. Whether they use COZ Tattoo Film or another pro-grade bandage, how long it stays on will depend on their technique — typically from 4 to 24 hours.

🛡️ At COZ Tattoo Supplies, we recommend using our second-skin tattoo film. It's latex-free, waterproof, and trusted by tattoo professionals across Canada, from Ontario to British Columbia. Designed to move with the skin and lock in a clean healing environment, it’s a top choice for busy studios and home use alike.

Washing and Hydration — Treat It Like Skin, Not Just Ink

After removing your wrap (according to your artist’s timing), you’ll need to clean your tattoo — but this isn’t a deep cleanse. Wash your hands like you're prepping for surgery, then softly wash your tattoo using warm water and an unscented, alcohol-free cleanser or tattoo soap. We stock several artist-tested cleaning options that support healthy recovery.

Instead of rubbing, gently pat the area dry using a clean paper towel or lint-free pad. No friction, no cotton swabs — just simple, sterile care. Once your tattoo is dry, apply a super thin coat of healing cream. At COZ, we offer only aftercare products with clean, skin-friendly ingredients.

⭐ Choose from:

Zensa Healing Cream – a Canadian favourite for its anti-inflammatory formula
Hustle Butter Deluxe – natural, non-petroleum balm for long-lasting hydration
Tattoo Film (COZ) – for extended protection and freedom of movement

Our curated aftercare range ships fast across Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver, and throughout North America — so you can maintain your healing routine wherever you are.

The Following Days — Be Patient, Let It Breathe

During the first few days, it’s totally normal to experience tightness, minor flaking, or a light scab layer. This is simply your skin working hard to rebuild and protect — a good sign, not a problem.

Do not scratch or peel. If flakes lift off on their own, great — but avoid rushing the process, or you risk dulling the artwork and slowing recovery.

Make sure you’re moisturizing consistently (but not overdoing it). Apply your tattoo cream 2–3 times a day with freshly washed hands. At COZ, we also carry green soap alternatives and tattoo ointments designed to protect your investment while soothing irritation.

Stay away from steamy environments, heavy sweat, and friction. That means gyms, long showers, tight jeans, and synthetic fabrics are on hold until your tattoo is fully healed. Stick to breathable clothing and give your skin space to regenerate.

🧼 Need help creating a clean setup at home? COZ offers: