TAKING CARE OF YOUR NEW TATTOO

You’ve just got an exciting new tattoo! Congrats!

Its not over, caring for your new piece is integral to keep it looking good.

There are many recommended aftercare methods, this one is catered to fine-line blackwork. 

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What to Buy 

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 + unscented anti-bacterial soap +

Dial or Dr. Bronners 

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+ unscented lotion + 

Jergen’s Ultra Healing, Lubriderm, etc.

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+  Aquarphor + 

Only a small amount is needed

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+ Sunscreen + 

at least SPF-30 sunscreen that provides UVA and UVB protection

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For Temporary Wraps

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Gently wash twice a day with liquid antibacterial non-scented soap. 

Pat dry with a clean towel, do not wipe or rub. 

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Your tattoo will begin to itch, peel, and flake. No picking or itching, however light 

Slapping is okay. 

For the first 2-3 days apply a very thin layer of Aquaphor followed by a small amount of non-scented lotion, 1-2 times a day as needed. 

Be sure to rub it in all the way - do not leave any excess on top. 

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Do not apply lotion more than twice a day or it will damage your tattoo.

You’re going for hydrated but dry. 

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Wear loose clothing over your tattoo, nothing that rubs or is abrasive. 

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Your tattoo needs to remain dry at all times for 2 weeks. Seriously.

No swimming, hot tubs, saunas, strenuous exercise, or anything that makes you sweat.

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Avoid sun for two weeks, then always apply sunscreen. 

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Do not re-bandage tattoo, it needs to breath.

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Do not apply Vaseline, lanolin, or petroleum-based products.

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Do not apply alcohol. 

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Do not pick, rub, or scratch your tattoo.

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Do not submerge your tattoo underwater. 

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Do not expose tattoo to the sun for 2 weeks.

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For tattoos protected by adhesive bandages or barriers 

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Adhesive bandages are transparent dressings that act as a barrier to protect new tattoos from infection, dirt, and abrasion while allowing the skin to breathe and heal naturally. They help to lock in the body’s natural moisture and enzymes to promote healing and can also reduce scabbing and infection.

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Leave on for 1-3 days. 

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Puddling or pooling of excess ink and plasma underneath bandage is normal. Remove bandage if it begins to leak or sweat accumulates under the surface. 

Bandages are best removed in the shower under warm water. Gently pull off, do not rip.  Pull with the bandage, not against. 

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Check for allergic reactions.

If redness appears in areas of un-tattooed skin or along edges of bandage, remove immediately. Then wash immediately with antibacterial soap and apply a topical antihistamine such as Benadryl. 

If you have any questions or concerns don’t hesitate to contact me.

If you are allergic to any type of adhesive or latex, do not use.

Once adhesive bandage is removed, follow above care instructions.

Long term upkeep is important:

Keep skin from getting too dry. 

Get in the habit of applying a thin layer of moisturizer daily even after your tattoo is healed.

Keep your tattoo out of the sun! 

Put sunscreen on your tattoo anytime it will be exposed to prevent fading. 

Sun is a tattoo’s worst enemy.