Aftercare

Here you'll find guidance and step-by-step instructions to ensure your tattoo heals beautifully and stays vibrant for years to come!

Initial Bandage

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-Keep the adhesive bandage on for about 24 to 36 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 probably 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 and try not to get too sweaty while wearing the bandage.

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Removing the Bandage

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-Remove the bandage with clean, dry hands, or after a hot 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 Dr. Bronner's unscented castile soap. Avoid direct water pressure; instead, splash water softly onto the tattoo.

-Pat the area dry with a paper towel or a VERY clean towel (it’s helpful to have some towels ready before you get in the shower) and let it air dry for about 10 minutes.

Second Bandage 

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-Be sure you have rinsed all soap away thoroughly, as soap residue can cause irritation and rashes under the bandage. Do not apply any moisturizer.

-To apply the second bandage, start with clean, dry skin. Remove the white backing paper (like peeling off a sticker) and apply the bandage directly to the skin. Start in the center of the tattoo and smooth it outwards. It’s fine if there are air bubbles! There little orange arrows across bandage—push around them to lift the perforation edge and peel it off, keeping it close to the skin.

-Remove the second bandage after 3 or 4 more days.

-Do not wear any piece longer than one week.

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

  • 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.