Aftercare Instructions

& Healing Your New Tattoos

Proper aftercare is extremely important to ensure optimal healing, pigment retention, and long-lasting results. Please follow the instructions below carefully.

Immediately After Your Procedure

1. Clean the Area Gently

When you arrive home, remove the bandage and gently cleanse the area using warm water, mild soap, and your fingertips.

Do not scrub the area.

2. Apply a Thin Layer of Ointment

Lightly pat the area dry with a clean towel, then apply a very thin layer of antibacterial ointment such as:

  • Neosporin

  • Bacitracin

Only use the smallest amount necessary to keep the area lightly moisturized.

3. Apply a Non-Stick Pad

Place a clean non-stick pad over the tattooed area and wear a bra or supportive camisole to help keep the dressing secure.

Please use only the non-stick pads provided to you and replace them daily. We also recommend wearing the pad and bra while sleeping during the initial healing period.

4. Repeat Ointment Application

2–3 times daily:

  • Remove the pad

  • Reapply a very thin layer of antibacterial ointment

  • Reapply the same pad throughout the day when necessary

  • Allow the tattoo to air out as often as possible with no bra or pad

5. Continue This Routine for 5 Days

Repeat Steps 1–4 for the first 5 days after your procedure, using a fresh non-stick pad each day. Day 1 is the day of tattooing.

6. Allow the Area to Breathe

The tattoo should not remain covered 24 hours a day. It is important to allow the area to air out for several hours daily to promote healthy healing. The more air the better.

7. Transition to Moisturizer

Once most scabbing or flaking has resolved, around day 6, discontinue the ointment and begin using a mild, fragrance-free moisturizer or cocoa butter daily.

At this stage, non-stick pads are no longer required.

Normal Healing Expectations

Some mild flaking, peeling, itching, or light scabbing is completely normal during the healing process.

However, if scabbing becomes unusually thick or heavy, please contact your artist directly.

Important:

Do not use Neosporin or antibacterial ointment for longer than 5 days.

Contact Your Artist Immediately If You Notice:

  • Excessive redness

  • Swelling

  • Cracking

  • Oozing

  • Warmth to the touch

  • Signs of infection

  • Any unusual healing concerns

Helpful Healing Tips

  • The goal during healing is to keep the area properly hydrated without over-applying ointment.

  • After the first day, a soft cotton t-shirt may be worn as a breathable barrier in place of the non-stick pad whenever possible.

  • If wearing a bra or tighter clothing, continue using a non-stick pad for protection.

  • Avoid swimming pools, bathtubs, hot tubs, saunas, and soaking the area until fully healed (for about 2 weeks). Showering is perfectly fine.

  • You may continue normal workouts and physical activity. During the first 4 days, wear a non-stick pad with a supportive bra while exercising.

  • Mild itching is normal, but do not scratch or pick at the area.

  • Most clients heal within 7–10 days, although the tattoo may continue settling into its final appearance for several weeks.

  • Slight softening or lightening of the pigment during healing is normal.

If the area is not fully healed and smooth within 7–10 days, please contact your artist.

Aftercare Support

All clients receive written aftercare instructions as well as their artist’s direct cell phone number following their procedure.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your immediate aftercare, please contact your artist directly using the phone number provided. We are available to support you throughout the healing process and are happy to assist you at any time, day or night.

Questions?

Please feel free to contact us anytime:

Office: 410-876-4638