Aftercare
1. Wash
Keep your bandage on for several hours. Wash your tattoo gently but thoroughly after you remove the bandage with unscented antibacterial soap. Pat it dry with a clean paper towel or let it air dry. DO NOT COVER. Continue to wash 4-6 times daily until it is through the peeling stage. At that point you can reduce washing. This usually takes less than a week.
2. Moisturize
Use a small amount of ointment after you wash your tattoo. You want to rub it in til it isn’t shiny. If it is shiny, you have used too much ointment. In 1-4 days your tattoo should be done seeping & now you can switch from your healing ointment to a simple fragrance-free lotion. We recommend Aquaphor and Lubriderm. If you have questions about alternatives consult with your artist. Aquafor works best during dry seasons, you can and should use less during the humid season.
3. Repeat
Too much moisture can prolong healing and too little can dry out and scab your tattoo, so find a balance while moisturizing. Avoid heavy coats of ointment, scented lotions and of course, keep it clean when you moisturize. Wash. Rinse. Repeat.
Reminders
Remember, your tattoo is an open wound while healing. If you expose your tattoo to unsanitary conditions, infection is possible! Clean clothes & bed sheets are important, and absolutely no baths/swimming pools until the tattoo is completely healed, which should take roughly 2 weeks. It may take a few weeks for your tattoo to settle while your skin repairs itself so you should avoid tanning, and use sunblock to protect your skin and your new tattoo.
Note: Aquaphor is a safe recommended ointment. Do not use alcohol, zinc-based products, or Neosporin. If you have questions about an alternative, please ask your artist.