Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

Congratulations on your new tattoo! Proper aftercare is essential to ensure your tattoo heals beautifully and retains its vibrant colors. Follow these guidelines to promote healing and maintain the integrity of your tattoo:

Protect it

Leave the Second Skin On: Leave this covering on for the specified duration, typically 48-72 hours, to protect your tattoo from bacteria and irritation.

Remove it.

When it's time to remove the second skin, do so in the shower. The warm water will help loosen the adhesive, making it easier to remove. Gently pull up and away from the skin, similar to how you would remove command strips from a wall. Avoid pulling too forcefully to prevent damaging your skin.

After removing the second skin, gently cleanse your tattoo with mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water. Use your fingertips to lather the soap over the tattooed area, then rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue.

Gently pat your tattoo dry with a clean, soft towel. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing, as this can irritate the skin and disrupt the healing process. Allow your tattoo to air dry for a few minutes before proceeding to the next step.

Heal it

Apply Thin Layer of Tattoo Balm: Once your tattoo is dry, apply a thin layer of tattoo-specific ointment or balm to the tattooed area. Some moisturizers may contain ingredients that can irritate the skin, so I recommend Mad Rabbit Ointment or Aquaphor

  1. Avoid Excessive Moisture: While it's important to keep your tattoo clean and moisturized, avoid soaking it in water for prolonged periods, such as swimming or taking long baths. Excessive moisture can soften the scabbing process and increase the risk of infection.

  2. Protect from Sun Exposure: Protect your healing tattoo from direct sunlight and tanning beds, as UV rays can fade the colors and damage the skin. If you need to be outdoors, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to the tattooed area.

  3. Avoid Scratching or Picking: It's normal for your tattoo to scab and itch during the healing process, but resist the urge to scratch or pick at it. Scratching can introduce bacteria and prolong the healing time, leading to potential complications.

Enjoy it

Typically my handpoke tattoos do not peel, so you will want to simply keep an eye on it.

Your new tattoo should be fully healed within 7-10 days, after which prolonged swims, exercise and other water activities are permitted.

Thank you for visiting my studio, and I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did!

Keep in mind, each tattoo heals uniquely, making it crucial to heed your body's signals and adhere diligently to these aftercare guidelines. Should you have any worries or observe unusual symptoms, reach out to me promptly for guidance. Additionally, remember that touch-ups are complimentary, ensuring your tattoo remains pristine and a cherished artwork for years to come.