Now that you have your beautiful and fresh tattoo, it is crucial that you follow proper aftercare.

A tattoo is more than a work of art, it is in a way, a medical procedure. For a period of time your skin will be open (similar to a cut or scrape), making it susceptible to bacteria and other small particles. This is why aftercare is a must! Not only will it prevent complications, but also preserve the quality and vibrancy of your body art.

It is important to understand that there are different methods to healing tattoos. This depends on several factors including tattoo style, technique, placement, and individual circumstances. This is why it is essential to follow the aftercare steps recommended by your artist and to ask them questions before using any non-recommended product on a fresh tattoo.

Remove the clear adhesive bandage (Saniderm or RecoveryDerm) on your tattoo after 24 hours. If regular plastic wrap was used to cover the tattoo, remove after 3-4 hours.

Immediately after removing the bandage/plastic wrap, wash the tattoo with an unscented antibacterial soap (such as Dial Gold, Softsoap, Neutral, or Dr. Bronner’s) and cool to warm water. Be sure to wash the tattoo gently but thoroughly, rinsing away any dried blood and ink.

After rinsing and removing all soap, pat dry (do not rub) with a clean paper towel. Do not use a body/shower towel or other reused fabrics.

Let the area air dry for at least 10 minutes. Do not re-cover the tattoo with plastic or bandage unless directly instructed to do so.

This step will depend on my aftercare instructions specifically for your tattoo (as it can affect certain tattoos such as ones with large areas of black or colored ink). This will be explained to you after your appointment.

5a: Ointment Healing: If recommended, after washing and drying, apply a very thin layer of moisturizing ointment (A&D or Aquaphor) with clean hands. These products are extremely thick to maintain moisture so a tiny bit goes a long way, applying too much product can trap germs which may cause irritation, bumps, or rashes (tattoo may also begin to look cloudy/white). Do not use it for more than 3 days.

5b: Dry Healing: If instructed by me, do not apply any ointment or lotion for 3 days. The skin will appear to be tight or dry and will begin to peel/flake.

Repeat washing, drying, and *step 5 two times a day for 3 days. This can be done in the morning and at night.

On the fourth day you will begin to use an unscented moisturizing lotion such as Lubriderm (blue cap). Apply a light layer all over the tattooed area 3-4 times a day and continue for 2 weeks.

Your tattoo should be fully healed in 3-4 weeks. Please remember to take care of your skin by moisturizing and applying sunscreen regularly. I recommend that everyone apply sunscreen on their tattoos whenever they are exposed to the sun, especially in the summer!

Things to avoid while your tattoo is still healing:

-Direct Sun Exposure

-Submerging in water (pools, bathtubs, lakes, beaches)

-Gym (refrain from working out for minimum of 5 days, infections are prone to happen in these environments)

-Prolonged Sweating

-Scratching/peeling dried skin

-Skin to skin contact with other people or animals

-Environments where contact with bloodborne pathogens is likely