Aftercare Instructions

  1. The tattoo procedure involves breaking the skin creating a potential risk for infection after the process, thus your tattoo should be treated as an open wound. These instructions MUST be followed to minimize these risks.

  2. ALWAYS wash your hands before caring for your new tattoo!

  3. Your tattoo may be dressed after the procedure. Wait at least 1 hour but no longer than 2 hours to remove the dressing. You may notice some blood and/or plasma (clear liquid) under the dressing. This is totally normal.

  4. Do NOT re-bandage the tattoo.

  5. Remove the bandage/wrap slowly. If there is any stiffness or pulling due to the bandage sticking to the tattoo, wet the bandage in lukewarm water until the wrap is released. Do NOT rip the bandage off, “quick like a band-aid”! Use this same process for clothing or bedding that may stick in the first 24-48 hours. Avoid tight-fitting clothing and avoid sleeping directly on your new tattoo.

  6. After removing the bandage, gently wash your tattoo with unscented antibacterial soap and water. Do NOT scrub. After washing, let the area air dry for 10-15 minutes before applying a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, sensitive skin ointment or lotion recommended by the artist (i.e., Aquaphor, A&D, Lubriderm sensitive skin lotion). Repeat this process approximately 3-4 times a day or whenever the tattoo looks or feels dry. Also, repeat this process if the tattoo encounters any possible contaminants. It’s recommended that you follow this process for the next 2-3 weeks.

  7. Your tattoo will take 2-3 weeks fully to heal. During this process, DO NOT scratch or pick your new tattoo! After 3-5 days, your tattoo will begin to form a new layer of skin, causing slight itching and peeling/flaking of dead skin cells. Avoid any excessive touching or rubbing of the areas and allow the skin to fall off on its own.

  8. DO NOT submerge your tattoo during the healing process. That means NO baths, hot tubs, or swimming in pools, fresh water, or salt water for at least 2 weeks. Exercising is fine but we recommend protecting your tattoo from the equipment due to possible bacteria.

  9. YES, you can shower with your new tattoo. You may follow your normal routine, although we recommend you continue to wash the tattoo with unscented antibacterial soap. Avoid using shampoos, conditioners, body wash, or other skincare products other than the unscented antibacterial soap on the tattoo site.

  10. Keep your tattoo protected and covered if working in a dirt, dust-filled, and/or oil-related environment. Try to wear loose-fitting soft fabrics. Avoid sunlight during the healing process in order to prevent irritation/damage to the new tattoo. After your tattoo is completely healed, use sunscreen to protect and preserve your new tattoo.

If you have any issues or questions, contact your artist or the shop directly. We advise that you seek medical advice if there are any signs of an allergic reaction or infection. If you experience any abnormal symptoms after the procedure such as pus or discharge from the tattoo site, extreme pain, itching, rashes, or swelling; we recommend you seek medical advice immediately.

Tattoos are a permanent investment, so it’s important to take care of the tattoo. Tattoo aftercare negligence that results in damage and/or need of touch-up will void all guarantees and you may be charged.