1. First 24 Hours:

• Keep the bandage on: Your tattoo artist will cover your tattoo with a sterile bandage or plastic wrap. Leave it on for 2–4 hours or as recommended by your artist.

• Clean hands first: When you remove the bandage, wash your hands thoroughly before touching your tattoo.

• Wash the tattoo gently: Use lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Gently lather it with your hands (don’t use a washcloth or sponge) to remove any excess ink, blood, or plasma.

• Pat dry: Use a clean paper towel or a soft towel to gently pat the tattoo dry. Do not rub.

• Avoid touching: Don’t touch the tattoo with dirty hands or expose it to dirt or bacteria.

​

2. After the First 24 Hours:

• Moisturize: Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free, non-comedogenic tattoo aftercare ointment, such as Aquaphor or a tattoo-specific lotion. This will help with hydration and prevent scabbing. If your tattoo artist recommends a specific aftercare product, use that.

• Avoid too much ointment: Don't over-apply ointment; a thin layer is sufficient. Overuse can suffocate the tattoo and delay healing.

• Wear loose clothing: Avoid tight or restrictive clothing that could rub against the tattoo, causing irritation.

​

3. The Next Few Weeks (up to 2-3 Weeks):

• Keep it clean: Continue cleaning the tattoo with mild soap and water. Wash it 1-2 times a day, depending on how much it needs it.

• Avoid scrubbing: Don’t scrub the tattoo as it can irritate the skin and disrupt healing.

• Moisturize regularly: Keep applying a thin layer of moisturizer or tattoo aftercare lotion as needed.

• No picking or scratching: Let any scabs or peeling skin come off naturally. Picking or scratching can cause scarring or ink loss.

​

4. Long-Term Care (After the first few weeks):

• Sun protection: Once your tattoo is fully healed (usually in about 4-6 weeks), always protect it from the sun. Use a high SPF sunscreen (30+) to keep the tattoo vibrant and prevent fading.

• Hydrate your skin: Continue moisturizing your tattoo regularly to keep the skin healthy.

• Avoid soaking: Don’t submerge your tattoo in pools, hot tubs, or the ocean until it’s completely healed (around 4-6 weeks).

​

Additional Tips:

• Avoid excessive sweating: For the first few days, avoid strenuous activities that could cause sweating, as it can irritate the tattoo.

• Avoid direct friction: Avoid tight clothing, rubbing, or anything that might cause irritation on the tattooed area.

• Stay cool: Avoid hot showers, saunas, and intense sun exposure during the healing process.

Remember, the healing time can vary from person to person, but most tattoos heal within 2-3 weeks, while complete healing can take up to 6 weeks. Always follow the advice given by your tattoo artist, as they may have specific instructions based on the size, placement, and style of your tattoo.

If you notice any unusual signs such as extreme redness, swelling, pus, or pain, contact a healthcare professional or your tattoo artist to ensure it’s healing correctly.

Let me know if you have more specific questions!