Hey, thanks for trusting me with your new ink! To keep your tattoo looking sharp and healing right, you’ll need to follow these aftercare steps carefully. This is just as important as the tattoo itself, so give it the attention it deserves.

 

1. Leave the Bandage On

 

I’ll cover your tattoo with a sterile bandage before you leave the shop. Leave it on for at least 2-4 hours. It’s there to protect the fresh tattoo from bacteria and dirt.

 

2. Wash Gently

 

Once you’re ready to remove the bandage, wash your hands first. Then, gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Don’t use anything harsh like a loofah or sponge—your hands are good enough. Let it air dry or pat it dry with a clean paper towel. Avoid rubbing the area.

 

3. Apply a Thin Layer of Ointment

 

After cleaning, apply a thin layer of fragrance-free ointment like Aquaphor or Hustle Butter. Don’t overdo it—too much ointment can suffocate your skin and slow the healing. You want a light coat that keeps the area moisturized but not greasy.

 

4. Keep It Clean and Moisturized

 

For the first few days, wash the tattoo twice a day and reapply ointment after each wash. After about 3-4 days, you can switch to a fragrance-free lotion like Lubriderm or Aveeno. Keep moisturizing your tattoo for at least two weeks.

 

5. Avoid Soaking

 

Your tattoo is an open wound, so avoid soaking it in water. That means no baths, pools, hot tubs, or oceans until it’s fully healed (around 2-3 weeks). Quick showers are fine, but don’t let the water beat down directly on the tattoo.

 

6. Hands Off the Scabs

 

Your tattoo might start to scab and peel as it heals—this is normal. Don’t pick, scratch, or peel the scabs, as it can pull ink out and leave patches. Let your body do its thing naturally.

 

7. Avoid Sun Exposure

 

The sun is your tattoo’s worst enemy, especially while it’s healing. Keep it covered and out of direct sunlight for the first few weeks. Once healed, always use sunscreen to protect it from fading.

 

8. Watch for Signs of Infection

 

A little redness and swelling are normal for the first day or two, but if you notice excessive redness, swelling, pus, or feel a fever, it might be infected. In that case, get in touch with me or consult a doctor.

 

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If you follow these steps, your tattoo will heal nicely and look amazing for years to come. Got questions? Feel free to reach out. I’m always here to help!

 

Thanks again for choosing Inkaholics Tattoo Shop!

 

• Andy Gazaro , Tattoo Artist at Inkaholics