Please leave the bandage on overnight to protect your tattoo and help sweat out excess plasma.

• Remove the bandage GENTLY and immediately take a warm (not hot!) shower.

• If the bandage feels stuck, let the water run over it, which will make it fall off on its own.

• Use a liquid soap or body wash (we love Dr. Bronners!) to wash the tattoo.

• Gently and thoroughly massage the tattoo as you wash it. You will want to remove all traces of blood or plasma. Rinse it fully clean and lightly blot it dry with a clean cotton towel or clean paper towel.

• Let your tattoo air dry for a few minutes before putting on your clothes.

• The first day after removing your bandage, you should not need to apply lotion. Washing it three times a day will provide the moisture that it needs.

• Allowing it to dry slightly on the first day allows the wound to start to close. Putting moisture on it immediately keeps the wound open and causes it to weep, which could prolong healing or cause it to stick to your clothes.

• Everyone's skin is different when it comes to moisturization.

• Even atmospheric moisture can make a difference in how your skin feels.

• If you choose to apply salve, use a small amount. We highly recommend Palmer’s Cocoa Butter lotion.

• The goal is to keep your skin soft, NOT moist—similar to the moisturization you get from applying chapstick.

• DO NOT re-bandage your tattoo.

• Wear clean, comfortable clothing. Quality workout wear is acceptable: Restrictive clothing like workout leggings can be a good choice, provided the material is not irritating. Avoid materials that are fuzzy or lacy. We find that synthetic materials like polyester blends are less prone to chafe or stick.

• Wash your tattoo two to three times a day and apply Palmer's Cocoa Butter AFTER each wash for five to seven days starting the day after you remove your bandage. Continue as part of your tattoo aftercare or until your piece has completely peeled.

• Peeling should start after four to six days.

• It’s normal to see scabs for up to two weeks.

• DO NOT PICK OR SCRATCH at peeling skin or scabs, as you will lose color and re-open the wound to potential infections (neither of which is the responsibility of your artist!).

• You can gently slap your tattoo to relieve itching.

• Second Skin, Saniderm, and similar products serve as a breathable, waterproof barrier to provide extended protection for new tattoos. Some artists prefer these products, as they can minimize your aftercare steps.

• If you leave the studio with Second Skin or Saniderm, leave it in place for 3-5 days. Showers are fine but avoid pools, spas, baths, etc.

• During this time, you’ll see plasma and excess ink pooling beneath the covering. This is totally normal.

• Once you remove the Second Skin or Saniderm, follow the above directions to clean and moisturize your tattoo until it is fully healed.

• If your Second Skin or Saniderm starts to peel off or gets water under it (not plasma/ink), please contact your artist.

• Please avoid any activities/environments that could harm your tattoo for the seven-day healing period, including (but not limited to):

  • swimming

  • immersing your tattoo in water

  • camping

  • gardening

  • sunning

  • tanning

  • working out (especially at a public gym!)

  • performing any other strenuous activities.

• Avoid letting your tattoo come into contact with pets, people, non-sanitary surfaces, dirt, standing water, chemicals, abrasive clothing, and your own unwashed hands.

• Do not expose your tattoo to direct sunlight for two weeks after your session. We strongly advise a high SPF sunblock after your tattoo is fully healed to protect premature fading.

• Red streaks, increased soreness, puss, bumps, blisters, or foul odor can indicate an infection.

• If you notice any of these symptoms, please seek medical attention immediately.

• If you have any concerns call us right away: 562-999-1454!