Aftercare Instructions
Proper care ensures your legendary art heals beautifully and endures for a lifetime
Your tattoo is more than ink—it's a permanent mark of your personal legend. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure your art heals with the vibrancy and clarity it deserves.
Initial Care
- Leave bandage/wrap on for 2-3 hours (or overnight if instructed by your artist)
- Wash hands thoroughly before removing bandage
- Remove bandage gently in a clean environment
Cleaning Protocol
Consistent cleaning is crucial for proper healing
Wash tattoo 2-3 times daily with unscented antibacterial soap and lukewarm water
Gently clean using your fingertips—no washcloths or loofahs
Pat dry with clean paper towel (not cloth towels which harbor bacteria)
Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion (we recommend Lubriderm or Eucerin)
Keep tattoo clean and moisturized but not overly saturated
What NOT to Do
Submerge tattoo in water (no baths, pools, hot tubs, ocean for 2-3 weeks)
Expose to direct sunlight (wear loose clothing to protect)
Pick, scratch, or peel flaking skin (let it fall off naturally)
Use petroleum-based products (Vaseline, A&D ointment)
Wear tight clothing over fresh tattoo
Exercise heavily for first 48 hours
Let pets or others touch your healing tattoo
What to Expect
Your tattoo will transform as it heals—here's what to anticipate
Initial Healing
Tattoo will feel tight and may be slightly swollen. Some redness is normal.
Peeling Phase
Skin will begin to flake and peel (like a sunburn). This is normal—do not pick!
Surface Healed
Tattoo appears healed on the surface but deeper layers are still healing. Continue moisturizing.
Complete Healing
Full healing complete. Blackwork and fine line may heal faster than heavily saturated pieces.
Warning Signs
Contact us immediately if you experience:
- Excessive redness spreading beyond the tattoo
- Unusual swelling after the first few days
- Yellow or green discharge
- Fever or chills
- Foul odor from the tattoo
- Signs of infection
Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe.
Long-Term Protection
Your tattoo is an investment in legendary art. Protect it.
Sun Protection
Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen on healed tattoos when exposed to sun. UV rays fade tattoos faster than anything else.
Moisturize
Keep skin moisturized to maintain tattoo vibrancy.
Stay Healthy
Healthy skin = beautiful tattoos. Stay hydrated and take care of your body.
Free Touch-Ups
Touch-ups are free within the first year if you followed these aftercare instructions. Simply contact us to schedule your session.
Questions About Your Healing?
We're always here to help ensure your legendary art heals perfectly. Don't hesitate to reach out with any concerns.