tattoo aftercare
aftercare is essential to proper healing after your tattoo session. your tattoo is a fresh wound : keep it clean, be consistent, and give your skin the time it needs to heal correctly.
after your session
when your session is complete, i will cover the tattoo with either a traditional bandage or a second-skin adhesive film. the type of covering will determine your first steps at home. take it easy after your session, eat a healthy meal, drink plenty of water, and get good rest.
if you leave with a traditional bandage:
remove the bandage after 2–3 hours. first wash your hands, then gently peel it away under warm (not hot) running water. it's normal to see a blurry, gooey layer, this is plasma and a small amount of ink, both completely normal. wash the area thoroughly with fragrance-free antibacterial soap, rinse well, and pat dry with a clean sterile paper towel or let air dry. do not reapply a bandage.
if you leave with a second-skin film:
leave the adhesive film on for 24–48 hours. fluid may accumulate under the film in the first day or two, this is normal. do not break the integrity of the film, as this could cause infection. to remove, gently peel the film away in a warm shower. wash with fragrance-free antibacterial soap and pat dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
the next two weeks
your tattoo should be treated as open skin for the first month. keep the area clean and protected.
cleaning: wash the tattoo 2–3 times a day for the first two weeks, or as needed. always wash your hands first.
clothing: wear loose, breathable cotton over the tattooed area for the first few days. nothing tight against the tattoo.
moisturizing: starting after 2 days, apply an unscented, fragrance-free moisturizer 2–3 times daily. use only enough to lightly coat the area — over-moisturizing can hinder healing. do not scoop product from a shared tub (bacterial contamination risk). use a pump or squeeze bottle, or single-use applicators only.
sun: stay out of direct sunlight and tanning booths for the full first month.
water: showers are fine. do not swim or soak in a tub, pool, or jacuzzi until the tattoo is completely healed — prolonged submersion can cause serious infection.
sweating: avoid exercise and activities that cause heavy sweating for at least two weeks. sweat, tight clothing, and contact with unsanitary surfaces can cause scarring, infection, and inflammation.
scabbing: your tattoo will form a light, dry scab that falls off in 7–10 days. do not pick or scratch it. lightly patting the area can help relieve itching.
minor irritation: if minor irritation occurs, you may apply a light layer of cortisone cream.
long-term care
once all peeling and flaking has stopped, typically around 2 weeks, begin applying spf 30 or higher sunscreen whenever the tattoo is exposed to the sun. broad-spectrum spf 50+ is recommended for the best long-term protection against fading.
seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following:
fever · redness or swelling at the site · tenderness that worsens · elevated body temperature · red streaks extending from the tattoo toward the heart · green or yellow discharge with foul odor
when in doubt, contact a physician. don't wait.