Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

A copy of these instructions will be given to you at the end of your tattoo session.

New Tattoo Care Guidelines

Day One

·         Keep your bandage on for as long as your artists instructs you to. This time will vary depending on what type of bandage is used.

·         Only touch the tattoo very gently.

·         Wear loose clothing that won’t rub on the tattoo.

Week One

·         Wash your hands thoroughly and gently clean your tattoo.

·         Use your hands -- avoid sponges or loofahs that might rub your skin too harshly.

·         Use hypoallergenic, unscented soap

·         Don’t let the tap water run directly onto your new tattoo; use your hands to gently scoop water onto the area.

·         Let the tattoo air dry; don’t rub it with a towel.

·         After washing, gently pat the tattoo with a lint free towel, and then let it air dry for up to one hour.

·         Apply a thin layer of anti-bacterial ointment 3-4 times per day for the first 3-5 days

·         Other than washing the tattoo, do not get it wet (no swimming!)

·         Some redness, swelling, and discomfort is normal.

·         Consult a doctor if you experience the following symptoms:

·         Excessive drainage

·         Excessive bleeding

·         Excessive pain

·         Excessive swelling

·         Skin that is hot to touch

·         Scabs will form on the tattoo, and it may be itchy or dry. Resist the temptation to scratch it or pick the scabs. Let your skin heal naturally.

·         Wash your hands before touching the tattoo.

·         Moisturize the tattoo using fragrance-free lotion, as needed.

·         Sun and prolonged time in water can damage your tattoo’s appearance, so cover your tattoo for the first 4 weeks to keep it out of direct sunlight.

·         Avoid swimming or soaking in a bathtub for the first few weeks.

·         In the first week, minor swelling and redness, as well as itching, are normal.

Week Two

·         Be particularly careful when washing your tattoo this week, as the peeling scabs may damage the tattoo.

·         Add additional moisturizer to help with the itching.

·         Wash your hands before touching the tattoo.

·         Protect your tattoo from the sun and from prolonged water exposure.

Week Three

·         Continue applying moisturizer.

·         Wash your hands before touching the tattoo.

·         Protect your tattoo from the sun and from prolonged water exposure.

Week Four

·         Once your tattoo has healed, it is alright to expose it to the sun. Be sure to apply sunscreen, as the skin may still be tender.

·         Continue to moisturize regularly to keep your tattoo looking its best.