Your new tattoo is an open wound and proper aftercare is important for clean, healthy healing. Follow these instructions and do not pick, scratch, or over-moisturize your tattoo.
IF YOUR TATTOO HAS SECOND SKIN
Leave the second skin bandage on for approximately 3–4 days, unless your artist gives you different instructions.
It is normal for blood, plasma, and excess ink to collect underneath the bandage during the first couple of days.
When you're ready to remove it:
Remove the bandage in the shower under warm water.
Slowly peel it back along the skin rather than pulling straight away from the tattoo.
Wash your hands first, then gently wash the tattoo with Dial antibacterial soap and warm water.
Do not scrub the tattoo or use a washcloth or loofah.
Gently pat dry with a clean paper towel and allow it to air dry.
Once the second skin is removed, do not reapply it unless instructed by your tattoo artist.
TRADITIONAL AFTERCARE
If your tattoo was not covered with second skin, or your artist instructed you to use traditional aftercare:
For the first 2–3 days, apply a very thin layer of Aquaphor after gently washing and drying the tattoo.
You only need enough to lightly moisturize the skin. Do not leave a thick or greasy layer on the tattoo.
After the first 2–3 days, switch to an unscented lotion approximately 2–3 times per day for about 2 weeks, or whenever the tattoo feels dry.
WHILE YOUR TATTOO IS HEALING
Some redness, tenderness, itching, peeling, and light scabbing can be part of normal healing.
For approximately 2 weeks:
Do not pick or scratch your tattoo.
Do not soak it in baths, pools, hot tubs, lakes, or other bodies of water.
Avoid excessive sun exposure.
Avoid tight or dirty clothing rubbing against the tattoo.
Keep the tattoo clean and avoid touching it unnecessarily.
Do not shave directly over the tattoo until the skin has healed.
Do not apply sunscreen until the tattoo has fully healed.
Once healed, using sunscreen regularly will help protect your tattoo from fading.
QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS?
Every tattoo and every person's skin heals a little differently. If you're unsure about something during the healing process, contact your artist or Blessed Tattoo Studio.
If you develop signs of a possible infection or a serious reaction—such as worsening redness, significant swelling, increasing pain, pus-like drainage, red streaking, or fever—contact a healthcare professional promptly.
BLESSED TATTOO STUDIO Indianapolis, Indiana @blessedtattoostudio317
Take care of your tattoo and it'll take care of you.
