1. Approximately 2 hours after getting your tattoo, remove and dispose of any bandaging or wrapping applied by the artist. With clean, washed hands gently wash tattoo with clean water and antibacterial soap (we prefer SoftSoap Antibacterial or Dove unscented/sensitive bar soap) and rinse thoroughly. Do not use any soaps that are abrasive, contain fragrance, or detergent based. Let the tattoo air dry for approximately 20-30 minutes.
2. Apply a thin layer of Redemption, Aquaphor, or A&D ointment over your tattoo. (Please note, too much ointment can cause clogged pores and more itching. Less is more!)
3. For the following 3 days, apply a thin layer of aftercare ointment 3-4 times a day depending on how your skin absorbs moisture. (If your tattoo looks glossy, pat excess with a clean paper towel. You are looking for a slightly matte finish.)
4. After 3-5 days, use an unscented hand lotion like Lubriderm as needed for additional moisture until skin returns to its pre-tattoo condition.

Mornings 1-3: immediately after you wake up, remove any wrapping/tape and rinse your tattoo with cool water and wash with a gentle antibacterial soap, rinse, and air dry completely before applying any aftercare ointment.

 

 

Adhesive Bandages - Transparent Field Dressings

1. 24 hours after getting your tattoo, remove and dispose of the original adhesive bandage applied by the artist – running water from a shower assists in removing the adhesive more easily.
2. With washed, clean hands gently wash the tattoo with clean water and antibacterial soap (we prefer SoftSoap Antibacterial or Dove unscented/sensitive bar soap) and rinse thoroughly. Let the tattoo air dry for approximately 20-30 minutes. Do not use any soaps that are abrasive, contain fragrance, or detergent based.
3.  To sterilize your new tattoo and keep any bacteria from harboring within the new adhesive bandage, apply isopropyl alcohol to a clean paper towel and gently wipe your dry tattoo and the surrounding skin. This may cause a stinging sensation but it prevents any possibility of infection to be trapped. Allow the area to dry for an additional 3-5 minutes.
4. With washed, clean hands apply a new piece of the adhesive bandage – when applying the new bandage; remove the white protective sheet first assuring that it hasn’t stuck to anything. Firmly press the sticky side onto your tattoo making sure that the entire tattoo is covered as well as 1” border of skin surrounding the tattoo. Carefully remove the remaining thin plastic piece from the bandage and your tattoo is now sealed and protected. Keep the new adhesive bandage on for approximately 3-7 days, depending on how your skin is reacting and how long the adhesive stays on properly. If the bandage is naturally starting to peel up, remove the bandage and continue healing your tattoo with the general aftercare instructions.

Please note that some people may experience a reaction due to the adhesive or other components of the bandage. If you have experienced any rash, irritation, or dermatitis issues with any adhesives in the past or have sensitive skin, we would advise you to not use an adhesive bandage, Saniderm Wound Care, or similar product.

If you notice any redness around the tattoo that does not naturally subside or if your skin is severely irritated, remove the adhesive bandage and switch to the general after instructions that are located on our website or ask for a copy to be provided to you.

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Important Things to Remember

• Letting your new tattoo to completely air dry allows the pores of your skin to keep from getting clogged with your natural bodily fluids or with too much aftercare ointment. Rule to remember - LESS IS MORE!
• Your tattoo will go through a natural “peeling” process similar to a minor sunburn. This is completely normal and is your body repairing itself. Do NOT SCRATCH or PICK the treated area while it is healing. Loss of color pigment and/or infection could occur.
• A slight peeling or flaking effect is your body telling you that it is healing properly and you are providing your skin with the right amount of moisture. If you have any slight scabbing, this is your body’s way of telling you that it might need a little more moisture. If this occurs, be sure you're maintaining the wrapping process at night as described above!
• Stay out of sunlight and tanning booths until your tattoo is completely healed, approximately 10-14 days. As always, apply sunscreen to all of your tattoos after they are healed to help maintain their color, sharpness, and to keep them from fading! (DO NOT apply sunscreen to a fresh tattoo. Your tattoo must be healed prior to any other products being used on the skin or discoloration could occur.)
• Do not soak or submerge your tattoo in a bathtub, sauna, or hot tub or go swimming while your new tattoo is healing, even with the use of an adhesive bandage. Showers are fine! 
• Your tattoo should heal in about 2 weeks if you follow these aftercare instructions! Do not listen to anyone except the tattoo professional about the healing process of tattoos and always reach out to your artist who performed the tattoo!
• New tattoos take time (approx. 1 month) to settle into your skin and return to a smooth texture. Be patient with your body during the healing process as everyone's skin heals differently!