Tattoo Aftercare
The first few days and weeks for a new tattoo are the most important so make sure you care for it properly. Below is the healing procedure and do’s/don’ts we recommend. Each individual is different; this may not be the best recommendation for each person. We recommend following the advice of your tattoo artist or seek the advice of a doctor if deemed necessary.
1. Tattoos will ooze, this is a normal part of the healing process. The bandage is there to keep airborne bacteria and any other contaminants in the environment from invading your wound. Leave the bandage on for about 1-3 hours.
2. After getting into the shower, WASH HANDS CLEAN with fragrance free antibacterial liquid soap (EX: DIAL/JERGENS). Do not peel off the wrap, let the water (as hot as possible) rinse off the wrap.
3. Do not scrub your tattoo with a brush or towel. The idea behind the washing is to eliminate any dead cells that have been allowed to accumulate on the surface.
4. Let your tattoo air dry or pat it dry completely (10 minutes)
5. After your tattoo is dry, apply a very thin layer of AQUAPHOR or an artist recommended brand. You do not need to rebandage.
6. Repeat steps above 2-3 times (as much as necessary) daily for the next 3-5 days with soap and AQUAPHOR or an artist recommended brand.
7. Thereafter, use fragrance free lotion as much as necessary for the rest of the time.
After a few days you may notice some peeling. It is at this point in the healing process that your tattoo will begin to itch. Resist the urge to satisfy your desire to scratch or pick at the tattoo. You can rub it or pat it.
Do not use any other products not recommended for your tattoo because this treatment and care is your responsibility for a beautifully healed tattoo. Usually a touch up is not necessary, unless the artist deem it his/her responsibility. Your tattooist will not take responsibility for your aftercare irresponsibility.
Do not...
swim or soak in a hot tub or bath for at least 2 weeks
use hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol on your tattoo
itch, pick, or scratch the tattoo
participate in activities that will make you sweat
use any other product unless recommended.
Do...
stay out of the sun until your tattoo has healed completely
apply sunblock to your tattoo after it has healed whenever it is exposed to the sun to protect it from damaging ultraviolet rays
consult a physician if you experience symptoms such as excessive swelling, redness, yellow or green discharge, or fever.