After Care Instructions for Your Tattoo

1. Leave the tattoo bandaged for 1 to 2 hours before removing, this allows the tattoo to bleed out without forming a scab.

2. After leaving the tattoo shop you should buy Aquaphor, antibacterial liquid soap, paper towels, plastic wrap, scotch tape, and a non-scented lotion. (We recommend Aveeno, Lubriderm, Curel, Eucerin. We do not approve of the use of A&D, Vaseline, Tat Wax, Tattoo Goo, H2Ocean, or any other specialty gimmick products.

3. When removing the bandage for the first time there will be blood, ink, and lymph on the tattoo. Wash the tattoo with warm water, liquid antibacterial soap, and your hand. Wash and rinse the area thoroughly removing all excess blood and ink, this will reduce the chances of a scab forming on your tattoo, and will further the proper healing of the tattoo. Your tattoo should be washed as such throughout your healing time, four or five times a day.

4. Gently pat the tattoo dry with a paper towel removing all excess water. Apply a small amount to your fingertips and gently rub the product into your tattoo. Your tattoo should have a glazed and shiny look, then gently blot the area with a paper towl to remove any excess ointment. This step should be repeated every time you wash your new tattoo.

5. For the first 3 nights, and ONLY at night, rewrap your tattoo before you go to bed. This will prevent scabbing and keep the tattoo from sticking to any surfaces such as clothing or bedding, as well as protect the tattoo from any debris you may encounter. It may make sleeping a little uncomfortable at first, but this step is essential to a well healed tattoo.

6. Upon waking, remove the bandage and repeat steps 3 and 4.

7. After the first 4 days, you may stop using the Aquaphor, and replace that product with one of the aforementioned non-scented lotions.

8. Keep the tattoo out of direct sunlight, tanning beds, pools, saunas, or any other excessively moist or wet areas. Do your best to not let anything touch or rub the area, such as clothing, waistbands, belts, or straps. Friction will create problematic healing spots. Do not shave your tattoo until it is fully healed.

9. If your tattoo does form a scab, DO NOT pick at it. It will pull out ink affecting the final appearance of your tattoo. Make sure your tattoo is completely healed before performing any of the activities listed in step 8. When you are able to return to the sun or tanning bed, use a 30+ spf sub block. This will preserve your tattoo against sun damage and keep it looking like new.

10. If you have any other questions or concerns, please call the shop and consult with one of the artists. We are more than happy to help you make your tattoo the best it can be.