How To Care for your New Tattoo

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This information covers the essentials of tattoo aftercare, but if you have any questions during the healing process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your artist or email the shop. No question is too small when it comes to healing—your comfort and results matter.

Once your tattoo is complete, your artist will bandage it for your journey home. Keep the bandage on for 1–3 hours. After removing it, gently wash the area with warm water and a mild liquid hand soap (like Dr. Bronner’s, Dial, or Softsoap—avoid exfoliating or scented body washes). Pat dry with a clean paper towel and allow it to fully air dry.

Apply a thin layer of Aquaphor or an unscented lotion (we recommend Aveeno, Lubriderm, or Curel) to keep the area lightly moisturized—never smother it. After a few days, you can switch fully to lotion. Your artist may suggest ointment if needed.

On your first night, your artist may recommend re-wrapping the tattoo in plastic wrap, especially for large or solid-colour tattoos. If not advised, leave it uncovered and exposed to air while sleeping.

Ongoing care:

• Wash your tattoo twice daily.
   
• Apply lotion 2–3 times a day or whenever it feels dry or tight.
   
• Always wash your hands before touching the tattoo.
   

Avoid the following during healing:

• Vaseline, Neosporin, or any medicated/scented products
   
• Picking or scratching scabs
   
• Re-wrapping after the first night
   
• Submerging the tattoo in water (baths, pools, oceans)
   
• Sun exposure (long outdoor time or beach days)
   
• Shaving over the tattoo
   

Your tattoo will scab lightly and flake over 1–2 weeks. Let it shed naturally—no picking. After the scabs fall off, a shiny or waxy layer may remain; this is normal and will smooth out over time with continued moisturizing.

If you notice a light spot or uneven area once fully healed, don’t worry—it’s common. Contact your artist with a photo, and we’ll arrange a touch-up if needed. Touch-ups are free within 3 months unless the aftercare was neglected. After that, a fee may apply at the artist’s discretion.

We’re here for you. For healing concerns, drop by the shop or email your artist with “AFTERCARE” in the subject line for a prompt response. If you notice any unusual rash, redness, or discharge, please consult a medical professional—we're not doctors, and your health comes first.