Aftercare
Proper aftercare is essential for your tattoo to heal beautifully. Follow these guidelines carefully.
- Leave the bandage on for 2-4 hours after your session. If your artist used a second-skin film (Saniderm/Tegaderm), leave it on for 24-48 hours.
- When removing the bandage, wash your hands thoroughly first.
- Gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap (like Dial Gold or Dr. Bronner's unscented).
- Pat dry with a clean paper towel — do not use a cloth towel.
- Apply a very thin layer of unscented moisturizer (Aquaphor, Hustle Butter, or fragrance-free lotion).
- Wash your tattoo 2-3 times daily with lukewarm water and mild soap.
- Apply a thin layer of moisturizer after each wash. Less is more — don't suffocate the tattoo.
- Your tattoo will start to peel and flake around days 3-7. This is normal.
- Do NOT pick, scratch, or peel any flaking skin. Let it fall off naturally.
- Wear loose, clean clothing over the tattooed area.
- Sleep on clean sheets and avoid sleeping directly on the tattoo if possible.
- Continue moisturizing as needed. Switch to a regular fragrance-free lotion (like Lubriderm or Cetaphil).
- The tattoo may look slightly cloudy or dull as the deeper layers heal. This is normal and will clear up.
- Your tattoo is fully healed on the surface after about 2-3 weeks, but the deeper layers take up to 4-6 weeks.
Things to Avoid
Submerging in Water
No pools, hot tubs, baths, lakes, or oceans for at least 2-3 weeks. Showers are fine.
Direct Sunlight
Keep your tattoo out of direct sun while healing. After healed, always use SPF 30+ to preserve the ink.
Picking & Scratching
Do not pick at scabs or flaking skin. This can pull ink out and cause patchy healing.
Harsh Products
Avoid products with alcohol, fragrances, or exfoliants on the tattooed area during healing.
Excessive Sweating
Avoid heavy workouts for 48-72 hours. Sweat can irritate a fresh tattoo.
Tight Clothing
Wear loose, breathable fabrics over the tattoo. Tight clothes can stick and pull ink.
Questions or Concerns?
If you notice excessive redness, swelling, or signs of infection, contact your artist or a medical professional. Some redness and swelling in the first few days is normal.
For touch-ups or healing questions, reach out to us directly through Instagram or book a follow-up.