Protect Your Investment

Tattoo Aftercare

Proper aftercare is essential for a beautifully healed tattoo. Follow these instructions carefully for the best results.

01 First 24 Hours

  • Leave the bandage on for 2–4 hours after your session (or as directed by your artist).
  • Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the tattoo.
  • Gently remove the bandage and wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap.
  • Pat dry with a clean paper towel — do not rub or use cloth towels.
  • Apply a thin layer of unscented moisturizer or aftercare ointment recommended by your artist.
  • Do not re-bandage the tattoo unless instructed to do so.

02 Days 2–14 — Healing Phase

  • Wash the tattoo 2–3 times daily with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap.
  • Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion or tattoo aftercare balm after each wash.
  • Your tattoo will begin to peel and flake — this is completely normal. Do NOT pick, scratch, or peel the skin.
  • Wear loose, clean clothing over the tattooed area to avoid irritation.
  • Avoid sleeping directly on the tattoo whenever possible.

03 Weeks 2–4 — Final Healing

  • Continue moisturizing daily to keep the skin hydrated.
  • The tattoo may appear slightly cloudy or dull — this is normal as the deeper layers heal.
  • Full healing typically takes 4–6 weeks depending on size and placement.
  • Once healed, apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) whenever your tattoo is exposed to sunlight.

04 What to Avoid

  • Do NOT submerge your tattoo in pools, hot tubs, lakes, or baths for at least 2–3 weeks.
  • Do NOT expose the tattoo to direct sunlight or tanning beds during healing.
  • Do NOT apply Neosporin, petroleum jelly, or alcohol-based products.
  • Do NOT let others touch your healing tattoo.
  • Do NOT engage in heavy exercise that causes excessive sweating over the tattooed area for the first week.

05 Piercing Aftercare

  • Clean your new piercing 2 times daily with sterile saline wound wash (0.9% sodium chloride).
  • Do NOT rotate, twist, or move the jewelry during healing.
  • Avoid touching the piercing with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid swimming, makeup, and hair products near the piercing during the healing period.
  • Healing times vary by piercing type — ask your piercer for specific timelines.
  • If you experience unusual swelling, discharge, or pain, contact us immediately.

When to contact us or see a doctor: If you notice signs of infection such as excessive redness, warmth, swelling, pus, red streaks, or fever, please contact us or seek medical attention immediately. Some redness and mild swelling is normal during the first few days.