Professional TattooAftercare Guide
Expert aftercare instructions from our professional artists. Follow these essential steps to ensure your tattoo heals perfectly and maintains its vibrant appearance for years to come.
Your Healing Journey
Initial Care
First 24 hours after getting your tattoo
- Keep the initial bandage on for 2-4 hours
- Remove bandage gently and wash hands thoroughly
- Gently wash tattoo with lukewarm water and antibacterial soap
- Pat dry with clean paper towel (not cloth)
- Apply thin layer of recommended ointment
Daily Cleaning
Establishing your daily care routine
- Wash tattoo 2-3 times daily with unscented soap
- Use lukewarm water only
- Gently pat dry with clean paper towel
- Apply thin layer of unscented lotion
- Avoid soaking or submerging tattoo
Healing Phase
Maintaining proper moisture and protection
- Continue gentle washing routine
- Apply unscented lotion 2-3 times daily
- Avoid picking or scratching
- Protect from direct sunlight
- Wear loose-fitting clothing
Fully Healed
Your tattoo is now completely healed
- Resume normal skincare routine
- Use sunscreen to protect colors
- Moisturize regularly for best appearance
- Schedule touch-up if needed
- Enjoy your beautiful new tattoo!
Important Warnings & What to Avoid
Recognizing warning signs and avoiding these activities is crucial for proper healing and preventing complications with your new tattoo.
When to Seek Help Immediately
Signs of Infection
These symptoms require immediate medical attention and could indicate a serious infection.
- Red streaking extending from the tattoo
- Excessive swelling that worsens after 48 hours
- Pus discharge with foul odor
- Fever or chills
- Intense, increasing pain after the first few days
- Hot skin around the tattoo area
Allergic Reaction Warning
Severe allergic reactions to tattoo ink, though rare, can be life-threatening.
- Widespread rash beyond the tattoo area
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Severe swelling of face, lips, or tongue
- Rapid heartbeat or dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
Excessive Bleeding
While some bleeding is normal for the first 24 hours, excessive bleeding needs attention.
- Bleeding that soaks through bandages repeatedly
- Bleeding that continues heavily after 24 hours
- Blood pooling around the tattoo
- Bleeding that restarts suddenly after stopping
Emergency Response Protocols
What NOT to Do During Healing
Picking or Scratching
Why avoid: Can cause scarring, infection, and color loss
Swimming or Soaking
Why avoid: Bacteria in water can cause serious infections
Direct Sun Exposure
Why avoid: UV rays can fade colors and damage healing skin
Tight Clothing
Why avoid: Can irritate healing skin and cause fabric to stick
Excessive Alcohol
Why avoid: Thins blood and can interfere with healing
Heavy Exercise
Why avoid: Excessive sweating can introduce bacteria
Questions About Your Tattoo?
Our experienced artists are happy to answer questions about the tattoo healing process, aftercare products, touch-ups, or general concerns about how your tattoo is looking.
💡 Prevention is Key
Most tattoo complications can be prevented by following proper aftercare instructions, maintaining good hygiene, and avoiding the prohibited activities listed above. When in doubt, it’s always better to be cautious and contact your artist for guidance.
- Trust your instincts - if something feels wrong, seek help
- Take photos to document any concerning changes
- Keep our contact information easily accessible
- Don’t rely on internet forums for medical advice
- Follow ALL aftercare instructions, even if they seem excessive
Have Tattoo Questions?
Our experienced artists are happy to answer questions about your tattoo’s healing process, aftercare products, or schedule touch-ups. We’re here to help with all your tattoo-specific needs.