Tattoo Aftercare

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Once completed, the tattooer will wrap your tattoo with an absorbent bandage. Leave this bandage on for a minimum of four hours to wick up any blood and fluid. You may leave the bandage on overnight or re-bandage before bed to protect the tattoo, clothing, and bedding.

When you are ready to remove the bandage, wash your hands with soap and water prior to cleaning the tattoo. Wash away any blood or ointment with liquid soap and water. Do not use rags, towels, or loofahs as they can harbor germs. Showers are recommended- do not submerge the tattoo in a bath or pool until completely healed. Always pat dry the tattoo with clean paper towels until healed.

You do not need to re-bandage the tattoo. Clean lose fitting clothing will keep it protected for the rest of the healing process.

After 3-5 days, your tattoo will begin to dry out and scab over (like a sunburn or scraped knee). Once this happens, you can apply a fragrance free lotion once a day. Only apply lotion if the tattoo feels dry. Over moisturizing can lead to painful rashes and complications.

Do not pick or scratch the tattoo. This can pull ink out and scar the skin.

Average healing time is 2-4 weeks.

Always contact your tattooer with any questions or concerns. Always contact your tattooer before using new products or healing methods, as there is a lot of misinformation surrounding tattoo care. 

Liquid soap- we recommend Castile soap (also known as green soap or Dr. Bronners). A non scented hand soap (such as Dial or Softsoap) is also acceptable. 

Fragrance free water based lotion- common tattoo safe brands are Lubriderm or Aveeno. Do not use products like shea butter or coconut oil (they are too oily and can cause beak outs). 

Sunscreen- once the tattoo is completely healed, sunscreen will protect it against fading and discoloration. Only use SPF 30. Any SPF higher than 30 is only intended for use on ears and nose.