AFTERCARE INSTRUCTION





INFORMATION
APPOINTMENT PREP


For tattoo aftercare, it's best to use products specifically designed for healing tattoos or recommended by professional tattoo artists. 

RECOMMENDED AFTERCARE PRODUCTS:
  • Tattoo-Specific Lotions
These are formulated to promote healing and maintain the vibrancy of tattoos. Look for brands like Inkness After Tattoo, Hustle Butter, Tattoo Goo, or After Inked.
  • Bepanthen
A widely trusted option, Bepanthen (an over-the-counter ointment found in pharmacies) helps soothe the skin and supports the healing process.
  • Other Options
If unavailable, suggest fragrance-free and alcohol-free moisturizers like Cetaphil or Aquaphor.

WHAT TO AVOID:
  • Products containing fragrances, alcohol, or petroleum jelly (e.g., Vaseline), as they can clog pores or irritate the skin.
  • Overusing any lotion, which can smother the tattoo.

HOW TO APPLY:1. Gently clean the tattoo with lukewarm water and mild soap.
2. Pat it dry with a clean paper towel (don’t rub).
3. Apply a thin layer of the lotion, just enough to lightly coat the tattoo.

It is very important that you take proper care of your new tattoo while it heals. Your tattoo artist is not responsible for any issues resulting from poor aftercare. Your tattoo will not heal properly if you do not follow these guidelines.

KEEP IT COVERED:Keep your new tattoo covered with a bandage to protect it from bacteria. Leave the bandage on for a minimum of one hour after your tattoo appointment. If SecondSkin is used, keep on for 2-3 days maximum.

REMOVING BANDAGE:We recommend that you remove the SecondSkin in the shower, allowing water to wash over the tattoo and SecondSkin as you remove it.

WASHING YOUR TATTOO:Use lukewarm water and unscented, gentle soap to gently wash the area. Do not use a towel, just your hand. If your tattoo feels slimy, do not be alarmed – this is plasma and is a normal part of the healing process. Try to gently remove as much of this as possible, as it can cause scabbing when it dries. Do not rub. Gently pat dry with a clean paper towel. Do not use cloth towels as they can harbor bacteria. Follow with a light application of unscented tattoo lotion. Use these products for a minimum of two weeks. *Do NOT use Neosporin or alcohol!*

BATHING AND SWIMMING:You can shower with a new tattoo. It is ok to get the tattoo wet, but do not soak your new tattoo. Submerging the tattoo in water can cause damage or infection. Avoid baths, hot tubs, pools, and the beach for at least 2-3 weeks.

SCABBING AND PEELING:After a few days, you may notice some peeling and possibly a little scabbing - do not be alarmed, this is normal. *Do not apply ointment or lotion to scabs.*  You may also start to itch when it begins to heal. *DO NOT PICK OR SCRATCH YOUR TATTOO!* If the skin itches, slap it. If it is peeling, put lotion on it. If it is scabbing, leave it alone.

SUN PROTECTION:Always protect your skin from the sun’s UV rays. Tanning can damage your skin and cause your tattoo to fade. Use at least 30-SPF sunblock when spending time outdoors.

TLDR:

WHAT TO DO:

  • Remove the bandage after 2-3 hours; if a SecondSkin bandage is used, keep it on for 2-3 days.
  • Wash the tattoo area with lukewarm water and unscented, gentle soap.
  • Pat dry with a clean paper towel.
  • Apply a thin layer of unscented tattoo lotion or Bepanthen.
  • Always apply sunscreen on the tattoo before spending time outdoors.


WHAT NOT TO DO:
  • Do not let anyone touch your fresh tattoo.
  • Do not use Neosporin or ointments other than recommended.
  • Do not use rubbing alcohol, peroxide, or cortisone.
  • Do not use cloth towels, as they can harbor bacteria.
  • Do not pick, peel, or scratch your new tattoo.
  • Do not soak your new tattoo - avoid hot tubs, swimming pools, and the beach during the healing process. 
  • Do not expose your new tattoo to direct sunlight without SPF.

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