Tattoo Aftercare Instructions:
Getting a tattoo takes a lot of energy! Eat something after your tattoo appointment. You can resume most normal activity immediately after your tattoo appointment but we recommend skipping the gym or other strenuous physical activity for the rest of the day.
Keep bandage on for as long as your tattoo artist recommends.
While you have bandage on:
Shower normally, don’t pick or scratch the tattoo. Do not soak the tattoo in water for prolonged periods of time (no baths or swimming, showering is fine). The tattoo might ooze ink and plasma under the bandage. Ink might pool or look like a smear under the bandage — this is completely normal.
How to remove tattoo bandage:
Bandage should be easily removed with warm soapy water in the shower. Do not re-bandage your tattoo once the bandage has been removed.
After bandage is removed:
Wash your new tattoo with warm water and a mild anti-bacterial soap. Gently use your hands to remove all blood, plasma, etc. to help prevent scabbing. Do not scrub your new tattoo — gentle pressure will be sufficient. Using a slightly moist and clean paper towel, gently dab your new tattoo dry and gently remove any solid pieces of blood, etc. Once clean, allow the tattoo to air dry for 10 minutes.
Apply ointment. Using very light pressure, gently apply a very thin coat of Aquaphor ointment (or a plain, unscented, unmedicated lotion with no “anti-aging” agents). A small amount will do — too heavy of a coating of ointment can trap bacteria into the newly tattooed area.
Do not re-bandage your tattoo.
Allow your newly tattooed area to have air as much as possible to speed healing. Wear loose fitting clothes if needed.
Repeat this cleaning process 2 times a day for 1 week or as recommended by your tattoo artist.
Do not swim, use a hot tub, or use a sauna for 2 weeks after getting your tattoo or until your tattoo is completely healed. Avoid prolonged sun exposure to your new tattoo until it is completely healed. It is normal for your healing tattoo to itch but resist the urge to scratch or pick at your new tattoo as this can lead to improper healing. Once healed, always apply sunscreen to your tattoo to prevent fading.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact your artist.