Jagua tattoos can look like real ink without the lifelong commitment. Follow this UK-specific aftercare to keep your stain deep blue-black and make it last as long as possible.
Hour-by-hour aftercare timeline
0–2 hours: “Hands off” phase
- Keep the gel undisturbed until fully dry (usually 1–2 hours).
- Avoid bending/stretching the area and tight sleeves or straps.
- If you must move about, cover loosely with breathable clothing to prevent accidental smudges.
2–24 hours: Set the stain
- When the gel is dry, wash it off with running, soapy water and pat dry — don’t rub.
- Keep the area dry for the next few hours; avoid long showers, steam, or heavy sweating.
- Skip perfumed products, acids (AHA/BHA), retinoids, strong deodorants and alcohol-heavy sprays on/near the design.
Days 2–7: Deepen & protect
- The stain develops from pale grey/blue to deep blue-black over 12–48h.
- Moisturise lightly with a fragrance-free lotion or a thin layer of balm.
- Limit friction (tight clothes, straps, watch bands, waistbands, towels).
- Outdoors? Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ on the tattoo and reapply regularly.
Days 8–15: Maintain
- Keep moisturising; avoid aggressive scrubs, loofahs and peels.
- Chlorinated pools and long hot baths can speed up fading — rinse with fresh water afterwards.
Care in real-life scenarios
Showers
Short, lukewarm showers are fine after the first few hours. Pat dry — don’t rub.
Gym & running
Reduce friction and sweat build-up over the design; choose looser kit and dab sweat away rather than wiping.
Swimming, sauna & steam
All can fade stains faster. If you swim, apply a thin balm layer beforehand and rinse with fresh water after.
Sleep transfer
For the first 1–2 nights, wear a soft sleeve or tee to avoid colour transfer to bedding or rubbing.
Placement-specific tips
- Hands & fingers: wash frequency + friction = fastest fade. Expect shorter wear.
- Ribs/waist: beware waistbands and sports bras — choose looser fit for 48h.
- Ankles/heels: socks and shoes rub — go softer and moisture-wicking.
Troubleshooting
- Smudged while wet: rinse gel off fully with soapy water; let it develop. You can place a fresh mini design next day beside it.
- Pale stain at 24h: it often darkens by 48h. Keep it dry, avoid heat/steam, moisturise lightly.
- Patchy fade: increase moisturising; avoid scrubs and tight clothing on the area.
- Need to remove? See our guide: How to remove a jagua tattoo safely.
Quick aftercare checklist
- Let gel dry fully (1–2h), then wash off with running, soapy water.
- Keep area dry and cool for several hours.
- Moisturise daily with fragrance-free lotion/balm.
- SPF 30+ outdoors; avoid scrubs/peels/retinoids.
- Minimise friction from clothing, kit and towels.
FAQ
How long do jagua tattoos last?
Typically 7–15 days, depending on placement, skincare, UV, water exposure and friction.
Can I shower the same day?
Yes, once the gel is washed off. Keep it short and lukewarm; pat dry.
Does moisturiser help or hurt?
A light, fragrance-free moisturiser or thin balm helps the stain look richer and slows dryness-related flaking.
Suncream on top — is it OK?
Yes. Use SPF 30+ and reapply; UV accelerates fading.
Shop pro-grade supplies: Jagua Gel Collection. Want broader tips for any temporary tattoo? Try our 7–15 day longevity checklist. New to jagua? Read the What is Jagua? Guide.
