Essential Information

Tattoo Aftercare

Proper aftercare is crucial for your tattoo's healing and longevity. Follow these guidelines to ensure your new ink heals beautifully. Normal healing time is 2-4 weeks.

Bandage Removal & First Wash

  • •Remove bandage in a CLEAN bathroom after 2-3 hours. Bandage may be left on overnight if comfortable and secure.
  • •Wash immediately after removing bandage with warm water and unscented, all-natural antibiotic soap (no fragrance, moisture beads, or scrubs).
  • •Washing Process: Make a lather in your hand, gently clean using circular motion until all ointment, blood, and lymphatic fluid are removed. Rinse and wash once more gently.
  • •Use ONLY clean hands to wash your tattoo. NO washcloths, bath towels, bath sponges, or loofahs.
  • •Dry with a clean paper towel (dab, don't wipe) or use a hair dryer on the 'cool' setting.

First 2-3 Days: Moisturizing

  • •Apply a thin layer of AQUAPHOR healing ointment or natural tattoo balm. Rub it in gently, then dab excess off with a clean paper towel.
  • •Fresh tattoos may "weep" during the first couple days (plasma and ink forming a thin moist coating). Gently DAB with a clean paper towel - do not wipe or be rough.
  • •Don't panic if you see tattoo colors on the paper towel - this is simply excess ink being sloughed from the surface.
  • •Maintain clean bedding throughout the healing process (about 2 weeks).

Days 3-14: Continued Care

  • •After 2-3 days, switch to FRAGRANCE-FREE lotion (such as Lubriderm or any other fragrance-free brand). Apply as the tattoo dries out.
  • •Once a day, in the shower, is usually enough cleaning for any new tattoo.
  • •Wear loose, preferably cotton clothing over the fresh tattoo. Avoid tight waistbands, bra straps, sweaty gym shoes, or itchy sweaters that can create healing problems.
  • •After a few days, the tattoo will begin to form flaky scabs that will fall off on their own. DO NOT PICK OR SCRATCH AT YOUR TATTOO.
  • •Keep it moisturized and scabs will slough naturally. Scabs will also be the color of the tattoo - this is normal.
  • •Avoid swimming, hot tubs, and direct sunlight during this period.

Long-Term Care

  • •Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen on healed tattoos when exposed to sunlight.
  • •Keep skin moisturized for vibrant colors and healthy appearance.
  • •If you have sensitive skin and experience acne-like breakouts, reduce the number of lotion applications per day.
  • •Consult your artist if you plan strenuous activity within the first ten days, or if you notice any unusual reactions.