Aftercare Instructions

Immediate Aftercare

1. Leave the Bandage On:
   • Your tattoo artist will cover your new tattoo with a sterile bandage or wrap. Leave this bandage on for at least 2-4 hours to protect the fresh tattoo from bacteria and dirt.
   • Some artists may use a specialized tattoo film that can be left on for up to 24 hours.
2. Wash Your Hands:
   • Before touching your new tattoo, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent infection.
3. Gently Wash the Tattoo:
   • After removing the bandage, gently wash your tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Use your fingers to clean the area; do not use a washcloth or sponge.
   • Pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel or let it air dry. Do not rub the area.

Ongoing Care

4. Apply a Thin Layer of Ointment:
   • Once the tattoo is dry, apply a thin layer of a recommended tattoo aftercare ointment, such as Aquaphor, A&D ointment, or a product suggested by your artist.
   • Avoid using petroleum jelly or heavily scented lotions.
5. Moisturize Regularly:
   • After the initial few days of using ointment, switch to a fragrance-free moisturizer or lotion to keep your tattoo hydrated. Apply a thin layer 2-3 times a day.
6. Avoid Soaking in Water:
   • For the first two weeks, avoid soaking your tattoo in water. This means no swimming, hot tubs, or long baths. Quick showers are fine, but keep the tattoo out of direct water spray as much as possible.
7. Avoid Direct Sunlight:
   • Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight and avoid tanning beds during the healing process. Sun exposure can cause the tattoo to fade and may increase the risk of infection.
   • After your tattoo is fully healed, always use a high SPF sunscreen on the tattoo to prevent fading.
8. Wear Loose Clothing:
   • Wear loose, breathable clothing that won’t rub against your new tattoo. Tight clothing can irritate the tattoo and impede the healing process.
9. Avoid Picking or Scratching:
   • As your tattoo heals, it will likely scab and itch. Do not pick at the scabs or scratch the area. Let the scabs fall off naturally to avoid scarring and loss of ink.

Monitoring Healing

10. Watch for Signs of Infection:
    • It’s normal for a new tattoo to be red, swollen, and slightly sore for a few days. However, if you notice excessive redness, swelling, pus, or if the area feels hot to the touch, contact your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional. These could be signs of an infection.
11. Follow Up with Your Artist:
    • If you have any concerns during the healing process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your tattoo artist. They can provide specific advice based on your situation and the details of your tattoo.

Long-Term Care

12. Keep Your Tattoo Moisturized:
    • Even after your tattoo has fully healed, keep the skin moisturized to maintain the vibrancy of the colors and overall health of the skin.
13. Protect Your Tattoo:
    • Use sunscreen on your tattoo whenever it is exposed to sunlight. UV rays can cause the colors to fade over time.