DO

DOs **Maintain the cleanliness of your tattoo:**

  • Gently wash your tattoo with a mild, fragrance-free soap or a specialized tattoo cleanser.

  • Utilize lukewarm water.

  • Pat it dry with a clean, soft paper towel.

**Moisturize:**

  • Apply a thin layer of a fragrance-free, alcohol-free moisturizer or a tattoo aftercare ointment.

  • Moisturize your tattoo several times daily to maintain hydration.

**Wear loose-fitting clothing:**

  • Opt for loose-fitting garments to minimize friction and irritation.

  • **Allow for air circulation:**

  • Permit your tattoo to air dry after washing.

**Adhere to your artist’s instructions:**

  • Your tattoo artist’s aftercare recommendations are paramount, as they are tailored to the inks and techniques employed.

  • **Stay hydrated:**

• • Consume ample water to support your skin’s healing process.

Aftercare

AFTERCARE: HEALING WITH TRADITIONAL BANDAGE / WRAP

  • Leave the bandage on for 2 to 4 hours. Do not re-bandage once removed unless specifically instructed.

  • Wash immediately with warm water and fragrance-free soap. Wash your hands first, then gently cleanse the tattoo using only bare hands until all surface fluid and ointment are gone.

    • Recommended Soaps: Liquid Dial Gold (Fragrance-Free), Dr. Bronner’s Baby Unscented, or Neutrogena Unscented Bar/Liquid.

  • Rinse thoroughly with cool water to soothe the skin and close the pores.

  • Pat dry with a fresh paper towel. Air-dry for 5 to 10 minutes before applying any product.

  • Apply a micro-thin layer of unscented lotion. Less is more—if it looks shiny or greasy, dab off the excess with a clean paper towel.

    • Recommended Lotions: Lubriderm Daily Moisture (Fragrance-Free), Aveeno Daily Moisturizing, or Plain Aquaphor (first 48 hours only, used very sparingly, then switch to lotion).

  • Repeat the wash and lotion routine 2 to 3 times daily for 2 to 3 weeks.

  • Healing guidelines: Do not pick, scratch, or peel flaking skin. Avoid soaking (no swimming, tubs, or saunas). Avoid tight clothing over the fresh ink.

AFTERCARE: HEALING WITH SECOND SKIN

  • Keep the film on for 2 to 3 days. Fluid, plasma, and ink buildup under the film ("ink sack") is completely normal. If the seal breaks, leaks, or rolls up over the tattoo, remove the film early.

  • Remove under warm running water. In the shower, peel an edge and slowly pull the film back over itself in the direction of hair growth. Never rip it straight out or up.

  • Wash immediately with fragrance-free antibacterial soap. Use clean, bare hands in circular motions to gently remove all dried fluids and residue. Never use a loofah or washcloth.

    • Recommended Soaps: Liquid Dial Gold (Fragrance-Free), Dr. Bronner’s Baby Unscented, or Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser.

  • Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Do not rub, and do not use a shared bath towel. Let the skin air-dry completely for 10 minutes until bone-dry.

  • Moisturize 2–3 times daily with unscented lotion. Apply a sheer, micro-thin layer to combat dry altitude air. The tattoo should look matte and hydrated, never wet or suffocated.

    • Recommended Lotions: Lubriderm Daily Moisture (Fragrance-Free), Aveeno Daily Moisturizing, or CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion.

  • Protection rules: Keep out of direct sunlight, avoid heavy sweating/friction, and never submerge the tattoo in baths, hot tubs, pools, or open water until fully peeled and settled. Normal showers are fine.

DO NOT

Don't pick or scratch:

  • Resist the urge to pick at scabs or flakes. This can lead to scarring and ink loss.

Don't soak it:

  • Avoid swimming, hot tubs, and baths until your tattoo is fully healed.

Don't expose it to direct sunlight:

  • Sun exposure can fade the ink and damage the healing skin.

  • After your tattoo is healed, always use a high SPF sunscreen on the area.

Don't use harsh soaps or lotions:

  • Avoid products with fragrances, alcohol, or harsh chemicals.

Don't over-moisturize:

  • Too much ointment can clog pores and hinder healing.

Don't wear tight clothing:

  • Tight clothing can rub and irritate the fresh tattoo.

Don't ignore signs of infection:

• • If you notice excessive redness, swelling, pus, or increased pain, consult a healthcare professional immediately.