Tattoo Aftercare Instructions
Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo.
Upon arriving home: Remove the bandage within 1 - 2 hours after getting your tattoo. Do not re-bandage; the tattoo needs to breathe, just like an open wound.
Clean your tattoo with anti-bacterial liquid soap. Be gentle, avoid using a washcloth or anything that will exfoliate your tattoo. Use only your hands.
Pat your tattoo dry gently with a paper towel. Do not rub or use a fabric with a rough surface.
For the first 3-4 days: Apply a small amount of ointment to your tattoo. You can use Aquaphor or A&D ointment. Always use clean hands and do not put your fingers back into the ointment after touching your tattoo. Ensure you rub the ointment in so it's not shiny or greasy - a minimal amount is desired. Remove any excess ointment with a clean paper towel. Do not use Vaseline, petroleum, or Neosporin. Wash, dry, and apply ointment 3-5 times daily, as needed.
On the first night, consider wrapping your tattoo in saran wrap to prevent it from sticking to your bedding. Avoid cloth bandages or pads, as the fibers can stick to your open tattoo and impede the healing process.
Wear clean, soft clothing over your tattoo for the first 2 weeks - nothing abrasive or irritating. For a foot tattoo: stay barefoot as much as possible. If you must wear shoes, wrap your clean tattoo in saran wrap, then cover with a clean cotton sock before wearing your shoe. Avoid sandals or flip-flops during this time to prevent chafing and damage to the tattoo.
By the 3rd or 4th day, your tattoo will start to peel. This is normal. Do not pick at the skin. Switch to a mild, white, unscented lotion, free of dyes or perfumes.
Continue using lotion for at least 10 days, 3-5 times a day.
Things to Avoid
Do not pick, scratch, peel, slap, rub, or irritate your tattoo.
You can shower, but do not soak your tattoo for 2 weeks. No swimming, soaking, or hot tubs.
Do not expose your tattoo to direct sunlight for extended periods.
