Tattoo Aftercare Directions
If an absorbent pad/plastic wrap/or drape sheet was used, keep on for up to 5 hours. You can remove it once you get home though.
Proceed to washing step
If derm/second skin was used, keep it on for up to 24 hours (it does not have to stay on the full 24 hours). Remove by grabbing an edge and slowly pulling away from the tattoo - do not pull off like you are removing a bandaid. Think command strip!
Proceed to washing step.
Wash hands with antimicrobial hand soap and then remove bandage or derm, then wash the tattoo with soap and warm water. Dry the tattoo by dabbing the tattoo with a paper towel and then give it a few minutes to completely air dry.
If you want to shower and wash the tattoo at the same time, make sure to use a clean towel that has been laundred recently.
Gently rub a small amount of fragrance free white lotion (any brand is ok), aquaphor, or tattoo ointment over the tattoo. Make sure the tattoo can breathe and the moisturizer is not caked on (especially aquaphor).
Do not rewrap the tattoo, let it breathe. Additionally, do not use vaseline, neosporin or bacitracin on the tattoo (antibiotic ointments can actually break down the tattoo).
The tattoo will get crusty (this is normal) and typically within 4-5 days will start to peel. Stop using aquaphor at this point and switch to a white lotion (any brand).
Do not pick at the tattoo, let the peeling occur naturally.
As the hair grows back/tattoo peels it will itch - do not scratch it. Moisturize the tattoo with lotion or slap it.
Do not let anyone touch the tattoo, including pets. Be careful about what the tattoo will touch throughout the day, especially shared surfaces like countertops.
For the first night, it’s recommended to wear clean clothes you don’t care about that cover the tattoo, since it may “bleed ink” overnight
Alternatively, you can wrap the tattoo with saran wrap before going to bed. If you do, wash the tattoo very well, let it completely dry and then wrap it. Do not put any moisturizer on the tattoo if you wrap it. The following morning, unwrap the tattoo, wash it well, and moisturize.
Do not submerge the tattoo under water for 2 weeks. Showering is ok, but avoid washing the tattoo with any exfoliants, body washes, loofahs/poufs - using a Dove/Dail soap bar is preferred.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work out/go to the gym?
Technically yes. However, it’s not really suggested (especially depending on the size and location of the tattoo). If you go, you are taking the risk of potential infections upon yourself. That said, if you do - make sure you wipe down the equipment that may touch the tattoo very well before using it. If you get really sweaty and gross, make sure to wash the tattoo when you’re done working out and bring a change of clothes if needed. You don’t want the tattoo to sit under the sweaty clothes for a long period of time.
Can I go in the pool/hot tub if the tattoo doesn’t get submerged?
Yes, but you are taking on potential risk of infection. As long as the tattoo stays above the water and stays dry you should be ok.
Can I put on sunscreen if I am outside?
No, not for 2-3 weeks depending at a minimum, preferably wait a month. Sunscreens are super thick and contain a number of compounds that can irritate the tattoo. A fresh tattoo already feels like a sunburn and is going to hurt more in the sun anyways. If you can’t avoid being outside, try to wear clothing that covers it, or lightly cover the tattoo in a spray sunscreen.
My tattoo is red & sore, is it infected?
Probably not. Your body will have an immune response to the ink being put in the body, as such it will have a mild soreness and redness around the immediate perimeter of the tattoo for a few days. If the pain & redness is excessive after several days, or there is abnormal scabbing, blistering or oozing, see your doctor.