TATTOO AFTERCARE
Respect the art. Take care of your skin.
Follow these steps to make sure your tattoo heals the way it should.
FIRST 24 HOURS
• Keep your bandage on for at least 6 hours. If it feels secure and comfortable, we recommend leaving it on overnight. If you choose to remove it sooner, be sure to follow proper cleaning instructions when taking it off.
• During the first night, some light bleeding is normal. If your tattoo sticks to clothing or bedding, do not pull it off. Instead, gently dampen the area with lukewarm water and slowly ease the fabric away from the skin.
• It’s also normal for a fresh tattoo to “weep” during the first couple of days. This means plasma and excess ink may rise to the surface, creating a light, moist layer. You can gently dab the area with a clean paper towel to absorb this. Avoid wiping or rubbing the tattoo.
• You may notice ink on the paper towel or your hands while cleaning. This is completely normal and is simply excess ink leaving the skin.
• To help prevent staining, we recommend using darker towels and bedding, and wearing dark clothing during the healing process.
CLEANING YOUR TATTOO
• Before you begin, wash your hands thoroughly and have an unscented antibacterial soap ready. Avoid any soaps with fragrance, exfoliants, or added beads.
• Carefully remove the bandage and tape. If it sticks, do not pull. Instead, wet the area with lukewarm water and gently ease it off the skin.
• Using warm water and soap, create a lather in your hands. Do not use washcloths, loofahs, or sponges on a fresh tattoo. Gently cleanse the tattoo using your hands in a soft, circular motion until any ointment, blood, or plasma is removed.
• Rinse the area thoroughly with lukewarm water until the skin is clean. Pat dry with a clean towel or paper towel, then allow the tattoo to air dry for at least 10 minutes. Do not rub or scrub the area.
• Once fully dry, apply a very thin layer of ointment such as Aquaphor or Hustle Butter. Gently work it into the skin, then lightly dab away any excess with a clean paper towel. Applying too much can prevent the tattoo from breathing, so keep it minimal.
• Repeat this process once daily in the shower for the first 2 to 3 days.
• There is no need to re-bandage the tattoo. However, keep in mind that your tattoo is an open wound during this stage. Avoid direct contact with dirty surfaces and be mindful of exposure to bacteria to reduce the risk of infection.
DAILY ROUTINE
• Apply a thin layer of Aquaphor or Hustle Butter 2–3 times per day for the first 5–7 days. Remember, less is more. Your tattoo should never feel overly greasy.
• As your tattoo begins to flake or peel, similar to a mild sunburn, continue moisturizing regularly for the next 2 weeks.
• Most tattoos will fully heal within 2–4 weeks.
• If you have sensitive skin and notice any breakouts, simply reduce how often you apply lotion.
• During the healing process, your tattoo may become itchy and develop light scabbing or flaking. This is completely normal. Allow any scabs or flakes to fall off naturally. Do not pick or scratch the area, as this can pull out pigment and affect how your tattoo heals.
• Keeping the tattoo lightly moisturized will help reduce itching and support proper healing.
DO'S & DONT'S
• Keep your environment clean during the healing process. Fresh towels, bedding, and clothing are strongly recommended to help prevent irritation or infection.
• Showering is perfectly fine, but avoid soaking your tattoo for at least 2 weeks. This means no swimming, baths, hot tubs, or prolonged submersion in water.
• Avoid direct sunlight on your tattoo while it’s healing. Once fully healed, always apply a high-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50 or higher) when exposed to the sun. Sun exposure can fade and damage your tattoo over time.
• Wear loose, breathable clothing—preferably cotton—to prevent friction and irritation. Avoid tight clothing or accessories that may rub against the tattoo, such as waistbands or bra straps. Stay away from dirty, sweaty, or rough fabrics, as they can interfere with proper healing.