Tattoo Aftercare Instructions
How you take care of your tattoo will directly determine how your tattoo will look when it’s healed. A tattoo is for life, so take the time to help it heal properly.
To heal your tattoo you will need:
- A mild soap such as Dove or Ivory (or any other white or clear soap that contains no dyes, perfumes or fragrances)
- An unscented white lotion such as Lubriderm, Aveeno or Jergens
- We do not use a bandage or wrap for your tattoo. They tend to not let a new tattoo breathe. The main reason for bandages was to keep tattoos from coming into areas containing bacteria. It is best to let your new tattoo breathe and be careful not to let it come in contact with the surfaces of the “outside world” until it heals.
- Pet dander contains bacteria and is bad for your tattoo. If you own a pet, dander can come from couches, beds, the floor, hands etc. Keep your tattoo “pet free”
- Wash your tattoo 2-3 times a day for 2 weeks.
- Gently Wash the tattoo using your fingertips or hands only. Using a mild soap and cool to warm water, take care to gently remove all traces of blood and/or plasma , residual body fluids cause scabbing. Do not scrub the tattoo during your healing period. Gently pat the tattoo dry with paper towel or just let it air dry. do not use towels or washcloths on your tattoo (unless they first time use clean, previously used towels can harbor bacteria.)
- Apply a small amount of lotion to the tattoo; only enough to where it will completely rub in with no excess, a little bit goes a long way. Always wash your tattoo before applying new lotion. Lotion your tattoo 2-3 times a day for 2 weeks.
- It is normal for your skin to form a protective layer over your tattoo. However, if you over moisturize or do not moisturize enough, a thick hard scab may form that may crack when you move. It is important to try to avoid this kind of scab through proper washing and moisturizing. Moisturizing is a personal balance that can be different for each individual.
- When your tattoo is healing your body will form a thin membrane to protect the tattoo while it heals. This layer peels off very similar to sunburn Do not pick at your tattoo or purposely try to make it peel while it heals. It will ruin your tattoo. It is normal to see small flakes of colored skin peeling falling off during this stage of healing
- Some people may also experience some heavier layers of buildup or scabbing. When dealing with scabs cut back on the lotion and make sure you do not scratch or pick at the scabs.
- It is normal for the tattoo to become very itchy during healing, sometimes gently slapping or tapping a tattoo can help, do not scratch or pick!
- Do not submerge your tattoo in water for at least 2 weeks. Soaking your tattoo can soak through the soft tissue and cause your ink to flow down the drain. This includes swimming in the ocean or a pool, hot tubs, and saunas. Short showers are best, under 10 minutes if possible.
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning until your tattoo is completely healed. Keep in mind that even after healing is complete the sun can and will fade your tattoo over time!
- Do not use Vaseline on your tattoo ever.
- Do not use lotions that contain color, fragrance or sparkles anywhere on or around your tattoo until the healing is complete.
- A tattoo isn’t completed until it is fully healed. Tattoos are an investment and require active participation on your part.