Aftercare
Initial Bandage
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-Keep the initial bandage on for 24-72 hours after getting your tattoo. If your skin becomes increasingly red or irritated, or if you’re sensitive to adhesives, remove it sooner
-Within the first 12 hours, you will notice some ink, blood, and plasma pooling beneath the bandage. This is completely normal! However, if the bandage begins to leak, remove it immediately and follow the instructions for removing the bandage.
-After about 36 hours, the pooled ink, blood, and plasma may begin to dry and form a crust under the bandage. This is also normal!
-Avoid submerging your tattoo in water (showers are completely fine), going into saunas, or excessive sweating while wearing the bandage
Removing The Bandage
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-Remove the bandage with clean, dry hands, or after a warm shower
-Peel the bandage off gently (following the direction of the hair growth) in a downward motion, close to the skin
- Avoid pulling it outward, away from your skin. This part can be a little painful. Stretching the skin taut while pulling the bandage off can ease the discomfort as well
-After removing the bandage, gently wash the area with water and unscented soap, making sure to rinse all the soap off completely. I recommend using the Banger Bar that will be provided for you at checkout during your appointment. Avoid direct water pressure; Instead, splash water softly over the tattoo
-Pat the area dry with a paper towel or a VERY clean towel and let it air dry for about 10 minutes
Healing with No Bandage
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Immediate Aftercare (First 24–48 Hours)
-Leave the initial bandage or wrap on for at least one hour, up to 24 hours
-Wash your hands thoroughly before touching or removing it.
-Gently remove the bandage (soak in warm water if it sticks).
-Wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free, dye-free antibacterial soap (no scrubbing or harsh cloths). Pat dry with a clean paper towel—do not rub.
-Apply a thin layer of lightweight, unscented moisturizer or ointment. Great options are Lubriderm, Cetaphil, or CeraVe. Avoid thick, occlusive products long-term.
-Daily Routine (First 2–4 Weeks)
-Clean: Wash 2–3 times per day with the same gentle soap and lukewarm water. Pat dry.
-Moisturize: Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free, alcohol-free lotion or ointment 2–6 times daily (or as needed to prevent dryness/cracking). Use just enough to keep it supple—over-moisturizing can clog pores or cause issues.
-Protect: Wear clean, loose, breathable, clean clothing. Avoid tight fabrics that rub.
-Avoid touching/picking: Let scabs and flakes fall off naturally to prevent ink loss or scarring
Other Considerations
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What to Avoid:
-No submersion: Avoid swimming, baths, hot tubs, saunas, or prolonged water exposure for at least 2–4 weeks. Short lukewarm showers are fine.
-No sun: Keep the tattoo completely out of direct sunlight. UV rays can fade ink and damage healing skin. Once healed, always use high-SPF (50+) sunscreen on it.
-No heavy activity/sweat: Pause intense workouts, heavy lifting, or anything causing excessive stretching/sweating for the first week or two.
-No harsh products: Don't use petroleum jelly (Vaseline), scented/dyed lotions, alcohol-based products, or makeup near the area. Avoid picking, scratching, or peeling.
-Keep animals away; use clean sheets and change them regularly
-If you notice anything unusual, painful, or uncomfortable during the aftercare process that isn’t covered here, please reach out to me right away. Additionally, contact your doctor or dermatologist for further guidance