Tattoo Aftercare

Leave the bandage on for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 1 hour.

After removing the bandage thoroughly wash your hands, and immediately wash your tattoo by hand using unscented soap and cool water.

Do not use a washcloth or anything other than your hand. They are harsh, abrasive, and could cause infection.

To dry, pat with a clean paper towel. If there is still bleeding or oozing fluid, gently pat the tattoo with a clean paper towel until it stops.

Once the tattoo is clean and patted dry, apply a thin layer of Aquaphor, and gently rub into skin until it is absorbed.

If any excess ointment remains, gently pat away with a clean paper towel. This will prevent the tattoo from suffocating. A tattoo needs to be able to breathe for proper healing. Repeat this process daily while your tattoo is healing.

Do not ever leave a thick layer of ointment on your tattoo.

Do not ever reapply a bandage to the tattoo.

Depending on size, location, and personal health, your tattoo may take several days to several months to fully heal. Be patient and stay healthy to ensure your tattoo heals well. Your tattoo may scab and itch as part of the healing process. Picking the scabs can lead to infection, longer healing, bleeding, and color loss in that area of the tattoo.

Do not pick, itch, or scratch at your tattoo.

A loss of color can occur in some instances through normal healing. As long as you do not pick or scratch your tattoo, we do provide a touch up if it is needed. It should be noted that all hand and feet tattoos are not guaranteed as we know that they will lose color and need touched up. 

You can expect to see mild swelling, bleeding, bruising, leaking/oozing fluids, and/or scabbing. If at any time you have concerns about the way your tattoo is healing, please come in and talk to an artist. If we believe that there is a sign of infection, we can direct you to a tattoo friendly physician. Please be aware of the difference between a healing wound and infection. Contact me anytime with any questions or concerns.