Tattoo aftercare

The wrap can stay on for 1-2 hours. When you remove it, wash the tattoo very gently with an unscented soap - just lather carefully with your hand, rinse and pat dry with a clean paper towel. Do not re-wrap it during the healing process (unless specifically instructed to do so) and follow the regular aftercare for at least 2-3 weeks.

  • For the first 3-4 days wash and rinse very gently a few times a day - at least once in the morning and evening, and more if you are active and get sweaty. Do not scrub, exfoliate or shave the area while it’s healing.

  • When the skin starts to dry out, usually on day 2 or 3, start applying an unscented,  non petroleum based moisturizer 2 or 3 times a day. Use a thin layer, just enough to moisturize the skin - do not use a big glob of it. Over-moisturizing doesn’t allow the skin to breathe and can cause problems while healing.

  • Your tattoo will be flaky, dry, itchy, and might form some scabs while it heals. This is normal. Do not pick or scratch at it.

  • No soaking in water (no baths/swimming - showering is ok) and no direct sun exposure for about 3-4 weeks.  If you have been offered a touch up, wait 4-6 weeks for the area to be healed before getting it tattooed again.

  • Always make sure your hands are clean when touching your new tattoo.

  • Do not use any scented perfumes, oils, cologne, deodorant, etc on the tattooed area until it’s well healed. You’ll know your tattoo is fully healed when the skin feels smooth and is no longer dry or shiny (usually 4-6 weeks for most people).

Product recommendations:

Soap:

  • I prefer unscented mild Dr. Bronner’s (in the light blue bottle), you can get it at Target and most drug stores.

  • Any fragrance and dye free soap will also work. Choose a liquid soap in a bottle, instead of a bar of soap - this will ensure cleanliness over multiple uses.

Moisturizer:

  • Any plain, unscented, dye free, and non-petroleum based moisturizer should work. Brands like Lubriderm, Eucerin, Aveeno, Cetaphil and Cerave have unscented/sensitive skin versions available, and can easily be found at most stores that have a skin care section.

  • If you prefer a more natural/vegan option, I have personally had luck using shea and cocoa butter based products such as Hustle Butter or Booda Organics (both are available on Amazon or through their websites), and pure jojoba oil.

  • Try to pick a lotion in a squeezy tube, or a bottle with a pump. If you end up with a tub of moisturizer, make extra sure to thoroughly wash your hands before sticking your fingers in there.

  • A&D, vaseline, petroleum jelly and other similar petroleum products are not recommended.

  • Aquaphor is commonly recommended by other tattooers.  I personally do not think Aquaphor is necessary, because I feel that it’s too easy to overdo it, so if you choose to use it please do so VERY sparingly. Aquaphor can be a bit heavy on the skin, so if too much is applied or if it’s used for an extended period of time it can clog the pores which could impact the healing process.