Tattoo Aftercare

The life of your tattoo depends on the care it receives in the first few days. Please follow our recommendations for the proper care of your tattoo.

 

(Aftercare instructions may vary artist-to-artist. This is a good point of reference, but if you have questions, always feel free to reach out to your tattoo artist.)

DAY 1-2:

After 1 hour:

1. You are considered relatively safe to remove plastic or bandage and wipe ointment and plasma off with antibacterial, antimicrobial soap using a moist paper towel. DO NOT RUB. Dried blood and ink may be removed with gentle washing (using your finger tips) with anti-bacterial/anti-microbial soap and water. DO NOT scratch or pick at the wound. Use a clean paper towel and pat dry. Once completely dried go to step 2.   

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If your tattoo was covered in saniderm or other skin barriers by your tattoo artist during your appointment, leave this covering on as long as the cover does not begin to curl up and allow air and moisture to be in contact with your tattoo. (usually 3-5 days if possible - if sooner, it's not a problem - however, in our experience, tattoos that are left covered for 3+ days generally produce strong healing results (even if plasma/fluid has built up under the sealed cover)

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2. Apply a thin layer of aftercare ointment such as Redemption or Hustle Butter.  DO NOT use Neosporin, Lanolin, or any petroleum based product. Bandaging is NOT necessary. It is critical that you remove the fluid and keep the tattoo hydrated.

DAY 3-4:

Wash your tattoo twice a day using anti-bacterial/anti-microbial soap. Apply a thin coat of aftercare three times a day. 

DAY 5-15:

Apply an unscented body lotion as needed, If your tattoo itches, resist the urge to scratch!  Remember, tattoos take 4+ weeks to heal.

DURING THE 2-4 WEEK HEALING PROCESS:

DO NOT scratch, pick, or peel. DO NOT allow the tattoo to dry out.

 

DO NOT expose to direct sunlight.

 

NO swimming; soaking in tubs or Jacuzzi; NO saunas; NO tanning; NO skin to skin contact; NO Vaseline, Lanolin or Petroleum products; NO contact with people or pets; avoid contact sports. After showering, pat the tattoo dry with a paper towel and re-apply aftercare ointment or lotions according to healing stage.

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Any other questions?
 

Reach out to your tattoo artist directly, or don't hesitate to reach out to the studio by email, direct message or, phone. You are always welcome to stop by the studio at any time and we can take a quick peek at your new tattoo and support you with assessing the status of your healing and if we need to make any additional recommendations to your after-care instructions.