Frequently Asked Questions

We recommend waiting until your tattoo artist gives you the go-ahead to remove the initial bandage or wrap—typically 24 to 48 hours after your session. Once the bandage is off and you’ve gently washed the area, you can begin applying UNFADED Healing Balm. Always follow your artist’s specific aftercare instructions, as healing timelines can vary.

Every UNFADED product is formulated with premium, skin-safe ingredients. Our core lineup features natural botanical extracts, medical-grade shea butter, jojoba oil, vitamin E, and proprietary color-lock actives. We never use parabens, sulfates, artificial fragrances, or petroleum-based fillers. Full ingredient lists are available on each product page.

Absolutely. All UNFADED products are dermatologist tested, hypoallergenic, and formulated for even the most sensitive skin types. That said, we always recommend doing a small patch test on untattooed skin before full application—especially if you have known allergies or sensitivities.

During the initial healing phase (the first 2–3 weeks), apply a thin layer of Healing Balm 2–3 times daily after gently washing the tattooed area. Once healed, switch to our Daily Moisturizer and apply once or twice a day to maintain vibrancy and hydration. For older tattoos, our Revive Paste can be used 2–3 times per week as a restorative treatment.

The Healing Balm is specifically designed for fresh tattoos during the healing phase. It provides a breathable moisture barrier that protects the tattoo while supporting skin recovery. The Revive Paste, on the other hand, is a treatment product for healed tattoos that have started to dull over time. It contains concentrated color-enhancing and exfoliating actives that bring faded ink back to life.

Standard shipping within the United States typically takes 3–5 business days. Expedited (2-day) and overnight options are also available at checkout. International shipping timelines vary by destination but generally range from 7–14 business days. All orders receive tracking information via email once shipped.

We offer a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not completely happy with your purchase, contact us within 30 days of delivery for a full refund or exchange. Products must be at least 75% full and returned in their original packaging. Shipping costs for returns are the responsibility of the customer unless the product arrived damaged or defective.

Of course! While our products are specifically formulated with tattooed skin in mind, the premium moisturizing and skin-nourishing benefits make them excellent for anyone. Our Daily Moisturizer in particular has become a favorite among non-tattooed customers who appreciate clean, luxury skincare.

Yes! Our Subscribe & Save program lets you set up automatic deliveries on your favorite products at intervals of 30, 60, or 90 days. Subscribers enjoy 15% off every order, free shipping, and early access to new product launches. You can pause, modify, or cancel your subscription at any time from your account dashboard.

Yes on both counts. UNFADED is proudly cruelty-free—we never test on animals at any stage of development. Our entire product line is also 100% vegan, containing no animal-derived ingredients whatsoever. We believe luxury and ethics should go hand in hand.

A tattoo typically takes 2 to 4 weeks for the outer layers of skin to heal, but complete healing of the deeper dermal layers can take up to 3 to 4 months. During the first 2 weeks, you’ll experience redness, swelling, flaking, and peeling—all completely normal. Consistent aftercare with products like UNFADED’s Aftercare Kit helps ensure the smoothest, fastest recovery possible.

We recommend avoiding intense exercise for the first 48 to 72 hours after getting tattooed. Sweat can irritate a fresh tattoo and introduce bacteria into the healing wound. After the first few days, light exercise is generally fine, but avoid activities that cause excessive sweating, friction on the tattooed area, or exposure to gym equipment that could harbor bacteria. Always wash and moisturize the tattoo after any physical activity.

Yes, you can and should shower with a new tattoo—keeping it clean is essential. Use lukewarm water and a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. Avoid soaking the tattoo: quick showers are fine, but baths, hot tubs, swimming pools, and any prolonged submersion should be avoided for at least 2 to 3 weeks. Pat the area dry gently with a clean paper towel rather than rubbing with a bath towel.

Some degree of apparent fading after the peeling phase is completely normal—what you’re seeing is a layer of new, slightly cloudy skin forming over the ink. This “milky” look typically resolves within 4 to 6 weeks as the skin fully matures. To support long-term vibrancy, use a dedicated tattoo moisturizer like UNFADED Daily Lotion daily and apply SPF 30+ sunscreen whenever your tattoo is exposed to sunlight.

Absolutely. Peeling and flaking typically begin around days 5 to 7 and can last through day 14. This is your skin’s natural regeneration process. The flakes may appear colored with ink—this does not mean your tattoo is coming off. Never pick, scratch, or pull at peeling skin, as this can damage the tattoo and cause patchy healing. Simply keep the area moisturized and let the flakes fall naturally.

Yes—sunscreen is the single most important thing you can do for the long-term vibrancy of your tattoo. UV radiation breaks down tattoo ink particles over time, causing fading and discoloration. Once your tattoo is fully healed (after 3 to 4 weeks), apply SPF 30 or higher sunscreen every time the tattoo is exposed to sunlight. For fresh, unhealed tattoos, avoid direct sun exposure entirely rather than applying sunscreen to the open wound.

Avoid petroleum-based products like Vaseline (they trap bacteria and suffocate the skin), alcohol-based products (they dry out and irritate the wound), hydrogen peroxide (it kills healthy cells needed for healing), coconut oil (it’s comedogenic and clogs pores), and any product with artificial fragrances or dyes. Stick to tattoo-specific aftercare formulated for healing skin.

Normal healing involves some redness, swelling, and warmth in the first few days. Signs of infection include: increasing redness or swelling after the first 3 days, green or yellow pus discharge, red streaks radiating from the tattoo, fever or chills, and skin that is hot to the touch. If you suspect an infection, see a healthcare provider immediately—do not attempt to treat it at home with over-the-counter products.

Absolutely—in fact, older tattoos often benefit the most from consistent aftercare. Our Tattoo Balm enhances the appearance of healed ink by delivering a light-catching sheen that makes colors look richer and blacks deeper. The Tattoo Paste provides intensive overnight conditioning for tattoos that have dulled over time. Regular moisturizing and sun protection are the two best things you can do for older tattoos.

The healing process is the same for all tattoos, but color tattoos do require extra attention to sun protection long-term. Colors like red, yellow, orange, and light blue are more susceptible to UV-induced fading than black or dark blue ink. If you have color work, be especially diligent about sunscreen application and regular moisturizing with a product designed for tattooed skin to maintain vibrancy.