Every tattoo artist has different aftercare instructions, and in a sense, we’re all correct. I heal my tattoos using the most simple methods possible, but if you work with another tattooer, follow their instructions for best results.

I don’t bandage with Saniderm/Tegaderm/any “second skin” products after the tattoo because allowing it to weep for 3-5 hours will prevent the gross “fluid bubble” from forming, which allows you to get more out of the film when you do apply it.

-If your tattoo is finished before 3 pm, feel free to remove the bandage just before bed, hop in the shower, and wash the tattoo using just your fingertips and a mild soap, moving in small circles to remove the plasma that has formed over your tattoo. Dial is WAY too drying, so I recommend some alternative soaps below (never use body wash!). Pat dry with a clean paper towel and apply a VERY thin layer of Aquaphor. Reapply a fresh layer of plastic wrap and sleep with this on, as it will help your tattoo to not stick to your sheets or your clothing. In the morning, remove the wrap, repeat the washing and ointment process, but DO NOT reapply a wrap.**

-If your tattoo is finished around 5-6 pm, sleep with the same bandage that I applied. In the morning, wash the tattoo with the method above and apply a tiny amount of Aquaphor but DO NOT reapply the wrap again during the healing process.**

-Wash your tattoo 1-2 times per day and never touch it with dirty hands or allow other people to touch it while it’s an open wound.

-Aquaphor is a skin protectant and is ONLY needed once per day for the first 2-3 days while the tattoo is an open wound. After this point, switch to a mild, fragrance free lotion once per day OR just leave it alone.

-Total healing time varies, but it’s usually anywhere between 2 weeks for small pieces and 6 weeks for large pieces or sensitive skin.

**Sometimes I cover the tattoo before bed for the first two nights depending on how much it’s weeping. If you feel like it’ll help the tattoo not stick to anything overnight, feel free to wrap it for an extra night.

PLEASE DO NOT:

  • Put the tattoo directly in the sun for at least two weeks

  • Apply sunscreen on the tattoo until it is completely healed

  • Go in ocean, lake, or bath water. Showers are fine, but standing water can cause the scabs to peel prematurely

  • Scratch or pick scabs/flakes. Smacking the tattoo lightly will help during its itchiest phase!

  • Allow pets to go near your fresh tattoo. They’re attracted to them and the germs/hair/dander can complicate the healing process

  • Use homemade soaps or lotions until the tattoo is fully healed

PLEASE DO:

  • Keep the process simple. Under-caring for your tattoo is MUCH better than over-caring for it

  • Change your sheets if you have pets, so that your fresh tattoo isn’t lying on their hair and skin

  • Discontinue lotions or ointments if they seem to be irritating your tattoo

  • Send me a healed photo if you think of it!

  • Reach out to me via email if you have any questions!

PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS:

Soap: Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap (almond or unfragranced), Cetaphil, Dove, Aveeno, Tom’s, or any other mild, fragrance free soaps. Try not to use bar soap, as it cross contaminates. Pump soaps are best!

Lotion: Cetaphil, Keri, Cera-Ve, Aveeno, Lubriderm, Eucerin