It’s important to remember everyone heals differently. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your artist with any questions you may have.

Day 1-3

WHAT TO DO:

-Leave the second skin on for 48-72 hours (follow artist instructions). No need to wash or put ointment on the tattoo during this period.

-Avoid strenuous activities, sweating, water, and sunlight during this period.

-If the bandage becomes damaged and the tattoo gets exposed, remove it and wash with antibacterial soap. Contact your artist for further instructions.

-If you experience excessive “weeping”, send a picture to your artist and they will advise.

-Don’t take Advil or anything that thins your blood.

- Remove the bandage on the last day (see below for instructions.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

-The second skin will  protect the tattoo from infection and prevent scabbing.

-Some redness, swelling, and heat around the tattooed area are normal.

-A clear or ink colored liquid may leak from the tattoo. This is known as “Weeping”.

-A bit of weeping is ok and the liquid will be absorbed back into the body. However if you have a sac of liquid, contact your artist.

MOST IMPORTANT:

-Avoid hot water and sweating. Sweat contains bacteria and can cause an infection. Heat /sweat also make removing the bandage more difficult resulting in a bad heal due to irritation from adhesive residue.

-Do not remove the second skin early as it may damage the tattoo and increase the risk of infection. If you have excessive weeping, contact your artist.

Day 4-6

WHAT TO DO:

-Gently wash the tattooed area 2-3 times/day . Use antibacterial soap such as Dial or SoftSoap.

-Pat the area dry with a clean towel immediately after washing. Let it air dry for 5-10 minutes before applying ointment.

-Apply a thin layer of Aquaphor Healing Ointment to the tattoo 2-3 times/day Rub the ointment in with light pressure and remove any excess ointment from the surface with your hand. (Optional)

-Avoid sun exposure.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

-The tattoo may feel itchy as it begins to peel (If it isn’t peeling at this point, don’t worry, everyone’s different).

-The tattooed skin will dry out, this is normal. Be careful to not over-moisturize.

-The tattoo will generally look darker and fuzzier during this period. Don’t worry, it will go back to normal in 1-2 weeks.

MOST IMPORTANT:

-Avoid sweating, picking at skin, and sun exposure.

-Take short showers.

-Avoid wearing tight or restrictive clothing that may rub against the tattooed area.

Day 7-14

WHAT TO DO:

-Continue to gently wash with antibacterial soap 2-3 times per day

-Apply unscented lotion or tattoo-specific aftercare product as needed to keep the skin moisturized. Gentle lotions such as Nivea, Aveeno, Cera Ve, or Cetaphil should be used. Tattoo products such as Tat-Fat, Hustle Butter, or H2Ocean can be used in place of lotion during this period

-Avoid sun exposure

WHAT TO EXPECT:

-The tattoo will continue to heal and the skin will become smoother and shiny.

-The color/contrast of the tattoo may look more vibrant as the healing process progresses. This is because the top layer of your skin has not regenerated yet.

-Peeling/flaking of the skin should subside.