I love my tattoo! How can I best take care of it?

Thank you for trusting me with your body and congratulations on your new tattoo! Below are the basics on aftercare. Please do not hesitate to email me if you have any questions or issues.

Day 1–3

Do

Try to keep the clear bandage (second skin) on for 3 days. The bandage is waterproof, so you can shower with it on. However, do not put hot water directly on the area.

You might see the edges roll up—as long as it still covers the tattoo, you can keep it on. If it starts to uncover the tattoo in any way, go ahead and take it off and proceed with aftercare.

If you see a lot of fluid build-up under the bandage that starts leaking, take it off as soon as possible. See “Day 4“ for how to take off your bandage.

Don’t

Drink alcohol.

Do any intense exercising.

Wear compressive clothing over your tattoo or apply pressure.

Submerge in water, such as swimming or taking baths.

Day 4

Do

Take off your bandage like a command strip by slowly pulling and lifting it off.

Gently wash your tattoo with warm water and unscented soap (ie. Dr. Bronner’s, Dial Gold). Gently pat it dry with a paper towel.

Wash your hands before moisturizing your tattoo.

Moisturize your tattoo with unscented lotion (ie. Aveeno, Aquaphor, raw shea butter). If using thicker ointments like Aquaphor, put on a very thin layer (about the thickness of the lotion you would put on your face). Too much moisture can cause infections.

Don’t

Rub bar soap directly onto your tattoo.

Use a cloth towel to dry or wipe your tattoo.

Drink alcohol.

Do any intense exercising.

Wear compressive clothing over your tattoo or apply pressure.

Submerge in water, such as swimming or taking baths.

Day 5–14

Do

Continue to keep your tattoo clean & moisturize it twice a day until the healing process is done. That means all of the scabbing and flaking have disappeared from your tattoo.

Don’t

Pick on the tattoo while it’s scabbing—this can pull out the ink from your skin.

Submerge in water, such as swimming or taking baths.

Day 15–30

Do

Continue to moisturize your tattoo. Your tattoo should be completely healed or getting close to it. Everyone’s body is different, so your healing process might be shorter or longer than other people’s.

Don’t

Pick on the tattoo while it’s scabbing—this can pull out the ink from your skin.

Submerge in water, such as swimming or taking baths.

Happily Ever After!

Enjoy your new tattoo! Once it’s fully healed, you can continue with your usual skincare products. Don’t forget to apply SPF to your tattoo to ensure longevity.