Aftercare

Immediately After Your Session

When you leave the studio, your tattoo will be covered with a protective bandage or plastic wrap. This covering helps to:

• Protect the fresh tattoo from bacteria and dirt.
• Prevent clothing friction from irritating the area.
• Keep the area moisturized with your body’s natural fluids.

What to do: Follow your artist’s instructions on how long to keep the covering on—typically between 2 to 4 hours. Once removed, do not re-wrap unless advised by your artist.

Cleaning & Moisturizing (Days 1–3)

Proper cleaning is essential during the first few days of healing. This stage helps prevent infection and sets the foundation for a smooth healing process.

• Wash Your Hands: Always thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water before touching your tattoo.
• Cleaning the Tattoo: Gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Use your fingertips to lightly cleanse the area, avoiding any scrubbing or abrasive cloths.
• Drying: Pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel or soft, disposable cloth. Avoid rubbing the area, which could damage the delicate skin.
• Moisturizing: Apply a thin layer of the recommended aftercare ointment or a fragrance-free moisturizer. This keeps the tattoo from drying out and forms a protective barrier.

Repeat the cleaning and moisturizing process 2-3 times daily. Be careful not to over-moisturize, as too much product can clog pores and slow healing.

The Healing Phase (Days 4–14)

After the initial days, your tattoo will start to peel and flake as it heals—this is a normal part of the process.

• Do Not Pick or Scratch: As your tattoo peels, avoid picking at the flaking skin. Let it naturally shed to prevent scarring or loss of pigment.
• Keep It Clean: Continue gently washing the area twice a day with mild soap and water.
• Light Moisturizing: Use a fragrance-free lotion or a specialized tattoo aftercare cream. Apply a light layer to keep the skin hydrated without saturating it.
• Wear Loose Clothing: Ensure that your clothing does not rub against the tattoo. Tight or abrasive fabrics can irritate the healing skin.
• Avoid Submerging: Do not soak your tattoo in water—no swimming, hot tubs, or prolonged showers. Quick rinses are fine, but avoid prolonged exposure to water.

This phase is crucial; proper care now means your tattoo will retain its color and clarity in the long run.

Long-Term Aftercare (After Day 14)

Once your tattoo has fully healed, continued care will help maintain its quality over time.

• Sun Protection: Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to your tattoo if it’s exposed to the sun. UV rays can fade the ink over time.
• Moisturize Regularly: Keep your skin hydrated with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer. Hydrated skin helps preserve the ink’s sharpness.
• Gentle Exfoliation: Occasionally, lightly exfoliate the tattooed area to remove dead skin cells and promote even color retention. Do so with care to avoid irritation.
• Monitor Your Skin: Keep an eye on your tattoo for any unusual changes. If you notice persistent redness, swelling, or pain, consult a medical professional immediately.

Long-term aftercare is an ongoing process, ensuring that your tattoo continues to look fresh and vibrant for years to come.

Need More Help?

If you have any questions or concerns during your healing process, don’t hesitate to contact me. Your tattoo journey is important, and I’m here to support you every step of the way.