Tattoo Aftercare

1. Remove the dressing the day after your tattoo appointment...
   The purpose of the dressing is to protect your new tattoo from any airborne bacteria. After 24 hours you may remove your bandages.



2. Wash the tattoo with soap and water...
   This is one of the most important steps in the care of your tattoo. As soon as you remove the dressing, you must wash the tattoo thoroughly with warm water, mild soap and a clean washcloth. The area will be tender, but it is important to remove all the dried blood and fluid. This is the only time you should expose your new tattoo to water. When the tattoo has been thoroughly cleaned, allow it to air dry. Allow your tattoo to remain clean, dry, unwashed and unmoisturized for the next three days.



3. After 3 days have passed, apply a thin coating of your recommended aftercare product...
   Your tattoo artist will recommend a product for you, taking into consideration your skin type, allergies and any environmental factors that may affect your healing. A common misconception in tattoo care is the use of healing agents such as Polysporin, Preparation-H and similar medicated ointments. The use of these products can in fact hinder the healing process, and in some cases, can cause extreme allergic reactions. Instead, a mild, non-scented cream or lotion should be used. Lubriderm, Aveeno, Curel, and Vitamin E lotions work very well in healing your new tattoo. Take care not to use too much lotion; if you can wipe some off with a finger, you've used too much.



4. Apply lotion 2 to 3 times daily for 2 weeks...
   During the healing phase, keep the tattoo as clean and dry as possible. Do not soak the fresh tattoo in water, and take precautions to avoid wetting it while bathing.



5. If a scab does form, do not pick at it!!
   Generally, tattoos take 3-10 days to heal. When properly cared for, most tattoos heal with only a light flaking after 5-7days. Even under the best of care, occasionally scabs will form. DO NOT pick, scratch, scrape or help it to fall off in any way! Picking the scab will simply cause another one to form, and will result in the loss of some color from your tattoo. If scabs should form, the itching that accompanies them is normal. To ease the itch, apply a thin layer of lotion, or try slapping the area. Just DO NOT scratch!! After the initial flaking falls off, many people experience a second flake, known as milky skin. If your tattoo appears cloudy, but looks bright when wet or after applying lotion, you've probably got milky skin. This will go away after a few more days of regular application of lotion.



6. Avoid excessive water and direct sunlight.
   Do not sit in a bath, swim or soak in a whirlpool for 2 weeks!! You may shower, but as previously mentioned, please keep the new tattoo as clean and dry as possible. Wetting the tattoo may prematurely release flaking, and result in color loss. Do not be alarmed if some of the flake should happen to fall off, this is normal after 3-5 days. Do not expose your tattoo to direct sunlight or tanning beds for at least one month. Tattooing removes your skin's natural sun-blocking abilities, and the area can burn in as little as 10 minutes. Sunburn will result in prolonged healing time, excessive scabbing, and color loss.