Aftercare
General Guidelines
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Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo.
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Treat your tattoo like an open wound—keep it clean and let it breathe.
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Wear clean, soft clothing for the first two weeks—nothing abrasive.
When You Get Home
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Remove the bandage within 1–2 hours. Do not re-bandage.
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Gently wash your tattoo with antibacterial liquid soap using only your hands. No washcloths or exfoliants.
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Pat dry with a clean paper towel—do not rub.
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Wash 1–2 times daily unless it gets dirty. Overcare can cause irritation.
First 3–4 Days
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Apply a thin layer of tattoo ointment after washing. If using Aquaphor, use the thinnest amount (to avoid suffocating the skin)
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Always use clean hands and avoid dipping back into the ointment after touching your tattoo.
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Your tattoo is safe to sleep on while it's fresh even though it may feel uncomfortable. Just make sure your sheets are clean and that you wash it when you wake up.
After Day 3–4
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Your tattoo will peel—this is normal! Do not pick at it.
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Use gentle unscented lotion for at least two weeks, applying 1–2 times daily.
Things to Avoid
❌ Picking, scratching, peeling, slapping, or rubbing your tattoo.
❌ Soaking for two weeks—no swimming, baths, or hot tubs. Showers are okay.
❌ Sun exposure for at least three weeks—use sunblock after that.
❌ Wearing abrasive clothing, jewelry, or shoes that rub against your tattoo.
❌ Letting others touch your tattoo without washing their hands.
❌ Gym equipment—clean it well before use.
❌ Neosporin
You Can Also
✔ Ice your tattoo to reduce swelling.
✔ Elevate it to minimize swelling.
✔ Take short showers to avoid overexposure to water.