Aftercare Guide
Proper aftercare is just as important as the tattoo itself. Follow these guidelines to ensure your new tattoo heals beautifully and lasts a lifetime. If you have any concerns during the healing process, don't hesitate to reach out.
Healing Timeline
Your tattoo will be bandaged when you leave the studio. Remove the bandage after 2-4 hours, then gently wash the area with unscented antibacterial soap (we recommend Dial Gold) and warm water. Use only your fingertips — no washcloths, sponges, or loofahs. Pat dry with a clean paper towel, never rub. Apply a very thin layer of the recommended ointment (Aquaphor or A+D Ointment) — just enough to make the skin slightly shiny, not greasy. Your tattoo may ooze small amounts of blood, plasma, and ink during this phase. This is completely normal. Keep the area clean and avoid tight clothing that might stick to the fresh tattoo.
Your tattoo will start to peel like a sunburn. This is a natural part of the healing process as your skin regenerates. Do NOT pick, scratch, or peel the skin — let it fall off naturally. Picking can pull ink out and cause scarring. Continue washing 2-3 times daily with unscented soap. Switch from ointment to an unscented moisturizer (we recommend Aveeno, Lubriderm, or Cerave Healing Ointment). Apply a thin layer 2-3 times per day. The tattoo may appear dull or cloudy during this phase — this is normal and temporary.
The surface should be mostly healed by now, but the deeper layers are still recovering. Continue moisturizing 1-2 times daily. The tattoo may still appear slightly dull — this is the final healing stage happening beneath the surface. Itching is common during this phase. Resist the urge to scratch — instead, lightly slap the area or apply a cool compress. Avoid soaking the tattoo in water (no baths, pools, oceans, hot tubs). Brief showers are fine.
Your tattoo is fully healed! Colors will brighten as the top layer of skin completely regenerates. Continue using sunscreen (SPF 30+) to protect your investment — UV exposure is the #1 cause of tattoo fading over time. If you notice any areas that appear lighter or patchy, contact us about a free touch-up (available within 6 months of your original session). Your tattoo is now a permanent part of you — wear it well.
Do's & Don'ts
Do's
- DO wash your hands before touching your tattoo
- DO use unscented antibacterial soap and unscented moisturizer
- DO wear loose, breathable clothing over the area
- DO keep the tattoo out of direct sunlight
- DO stay hydrated — drink plenty of water
- DO follow the specific instructions your artist gave you
- DO contact us if you have any concerns about healing
Don'ts
- DON'T submerge in water (baths, pools, oceans, hot tubs) for 2 weeks
- DON'T expose to direct sunlight or tanning beds for 2 weeks
- DON'T pick, scratch, or peel at the tattoo
- DON'T apply heavy ointments, petroleum jelly, or foreign substances
- DON'T wear tight clothing that rubs against the area
- DON'T work out heavily for the first 48 hours (sweat can irritate)
- DON'T drink alcohol 24 hours before or after getting tattooed
When to See a Doctor
While mild redness and swelling are normal, contact a healthcare professional if you experience:
- Redness that spreads beyond the tattoo area after the first 48 hours
- Severe pain that doesn't improve with over-the-counter pain relief
- Pus or foul-smelling discharge from the tattoo
- Fever, chills, or nausea
- Red streaks radiating from the tattoo
- A tattoo that feels hot to the touch after the first day
These could be signs of infection and require prompt medical attention. Don't wait — your health comes first.