Day 1
1)Remove bandages 1-2 hours after getting your tattoo. Your tattoo needs to breathe. You will not re-bandage during the rest of the healing process.
2) Wash with warm water and a mild soap, preferably without dyes and/or perfumes. Gently wash with lathered hands and not a wash rag as it may have an abrasive affect on the skin.
3)Using a clean towel, dry off your skin with a dabbing motion, DO NOT RUB!
4)Apply a thin coat of ointment to your tattoo, not a thick layer as your skin will not be able to breathe properly. We recommend A&D ointment. Consult your artist for any alternatives.
Repeat steps 2-4 at least twice a day, morning and night for 3 weeks.
The first night of rest, your tattoo may stick to your bed linens and possibly stain. Try to sleep in clothing that will keep your tattoo from coming in contact with your sheets. If you do this option and your tattoo is stuck to your clothing, DO NOT rip the clothing away from the tattoo. Soak the area with water and then remove. Your tattoo will have a bit of oozing the first day or two, do not get excited, this is expected. Just keep it clean and moisturized.
Week 1
Your tattoo will be a little sore and red and maybe a little bit of swelling (compared to having a sunburn), depending on the area worked on. It is common for the tattoo to ooze ink, blood and plasma for about 12-48 hours. Proper aftercare is very important for healthy healing and should be started immediately. After several days, your tattoo will form a scab or get a flaky layer.
Week 2
Your tattoo may start to peel and flake and become itchy. DO NOT PICK, RUB OR SCRATCH! The scab or flakes will come off naturally, therefore not losing color or causing irritation to the tattoo. The scabs/flakes will be the same color as your tattoo. So don’t worry, your tattoo is not coming off!
Week 3
The scabs/flakes should just about be gone, but the tattoo is not all the way healed. It may appear shiny or even a bit milky. It is very important to keep it out of the sun as much as possible and continue to keep it moisturized. If you are a slow healer or your tattoo has become irritated, expect your skin to take several more weeks to heal. If you heal faster, you may only have just another week to go.
Do not hesitate to call us if you have a question concerning your tattoo. Stick with the advice of a professional artist. That’s what we are here for.
Everybody takes ink differently. Healing and care make the outcome. During the first 3-4 weeks do not soak in a bathtub, Jacuzzi, swimming pool or sauna. Chlorine and salt can fade a tattoo. Sun will also fade a tattoo. Use sunscreen for protection.