TATTOO AFTERCARE

Proper care. Clean healing. Beautiful results.

THE HEALING PROCESS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF YOUR TATTOO JOURNEY. PROPER AFTERCARE IS ESSENTIAL FOR OPTIMAL HEALING AND TO MAINTAIN THE VIBRANCY AND QUALITY OF YOUR TATTOO.

Your new tattoo is an open wound and needs proper care to heal well. Please follow these instructions to keep your tattoo clean, protect your skin, and help prevent infection.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED

  • Gentle, fragrance-free soap (anti-bacterial)

  • Ointment (Aquaphor or Tattoo ointment)

  • Fragrance-free moisturizer (Lubriderm)

  • Clean paper towels

Day 1 - Initial Care

1. Remove the wrap. Your tattoo will be covered with traditional plastic wrap after your appointment. Remove it 2-3 hours after tattoo session.

2. Wash your hands. Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your new tattoo.

3. Clean your tattoo. Gently wash your tattoo with lukewarm running water and gentle, fragrance-free soap. Use clean fingertips to remove excess ink, fluid, and residue. Do not scrub.

4. Pat dry. Gently pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel. Do not rub or use a shared towel.

5. Apply a thin layer of ointment. Apply a very thin layer of ointment. Do not apply a thick or greasy coating.

6. Keep it clean. Keep your tattoo clean and avoid unnecessary touching.

Night 1-2 - Wrap your tattoo in saran wrap or wear loose clothing that will cover your tattoo completely.

Days 2–4 (Keep it clean)

  • Wash your hands before touching your tattoo.

  • Gently wash your tattoo twice daily with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap.

  • Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean paper towel.

  • Apply only a very thin layer of recommended aftercare ointment

  • Avoid tight clothing or anything that repeatedly rubs against your tattoo.

Days 5–14 (Peeling and Moisturizing)

Your tattoo may begin to peel, flake, or itch. This is a normal part of healing.

  • Continue gently washing your tattoo twice daily.

  • As peeling begins and the skin no longer needs ointment, switch to a light, fragrance-free moisturizer.

  • Apply a thin layer of lotion to prevent excessive dryness.

  • Do not scratch, pick, rub, or peel the healing skin.

  • Do not soak your tattoo in baths, pools, hot tubs, or natural bodies of water.

  • Avoid direct sun exposure until your tattoo has healed.

❌ What Not to Do While Your Tattoo Heals (First 2–3 weeks, or until fully healed)

Your fresh tattoo is an open wound. Keep it clean and protected to help prevent infection.

🚫 Avoid Soaking

  • No swimming, baths, hot tubs, oceans, lakes, or pools until fully healed.

  • Showers are fine.

☀️ Avoid Sun & Friction

  • Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight.

  • Avoid tight clothing / rubbing against the tattoo.

❗ Prevent Infection

  • Keep your tattoo away from dirty surfaces and unwashed hands.

  • Keep pets away from your tattoo and use clean bedding.

  • If your tattoo gets dirty, gently wash it with clean water and fragrance-free soap.

🧼 Be Gentle

  • Do not scratch, pick, or peel flaking skin.

  • Do not shave over your healing tattoo.

  • Avoid harsh products and excessive ointment.

💪 Sweat & Exercise

  • Avoid strenuous workouts for the first few days, especially activities that cause heavy sweating or friction.

  • Resume exercise when comfortable, and gently clean your tattoo afterward.

Alternative Healing Method : Second Skin

Second-skin bandages, such as Saniderm or Derm Shield, are an alternative to traditional wrapping. They help protect your tattoo during the initial healing process.

  • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and removal.

  • Use only on suitable skin, and discontinue use if irritation or an allergic reaction occurs.

  • If you have sensitive skin or adhesive allergies, consult your tattoo artist before use.

Remember: Second skin is optional. Proper cleaning and aftercare are essential for healing.