Aftercare Instructions

Leave the Bandage On

Leave your bandage on for the amount of time recommended by your artist.
If you're wearing a second-skin bandage (such as Saniderm or Derm Shield), keep it on for 3–5 days unless it leaks, peels significantly, or becomes filled with fluid.

Wash Your Tattoo

Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your tattoo.
Gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free, antibacterial soap.
Do not scrub or use washcloths.
Pat dry with a clean paper towel or allow it to air dry.

Moisturize

Apply a very thin layer of fragrance-free tattoo aftercare lotion or moisturizer.
Reapply 2–3 times daily, or whenever the tattoo feels dry.
Avoid over-moisturizing, as the tattoo still needs to breathe.

During the Healing Process

Your tattoo will go through several normal healing stages:

Redness and tenderness (first few days)
Light scabbing or flaking
Itching (do not scratch)

Do NOT:

Pick or peel scabs or flaky skin.
Soak your tattoo in baths, hot tubs, pools, lakes, or oceans for at least 2–4 weeks.
Expose your tattoo to direct sunlight while it's healing.
Wear tight or abrasive clothing that rubs against the tattoo.

Showering

Showering is fine, but avoid long, hot showers that soak the tattoo.

Exercise

Light exercise is usually okay. Avoid activities that cause excessive friction, heavy sweating, or stretching of the tattooed area during the first several days.

Sun Protection

Once your tattoo is fully healed, always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen when it's exposed to the sun. Sun protection helps preserve the detail and vibrancy of your tattoo.

When to Contact Your Artist or a Healthcare Provider

Some redness, swelling, and tenderness are normal. However, seek medical advice if you experience:

Severe or worsening pain after several days
Excessive swelling
Thick yellow or green discharge
Red streaks spreading from the tattoo
Fever or chills

Questions?

If you have any questions or concerns during the healing process, don't hesitate to contact your tattoo artist. We're here to help ensure your tattoo heals beautifully.