By following the steps below, you will have the best retention of color and the fastest healing result.

1. Remove the dressing the following morning.

The purpose of the dressing is to protect your new tattoo from any airborne bacteria. During the first few hours it is normal for your tattoo to seep some blood and fluids. Do not be alarmed. The dressing is absorbent plastic to absorb excess fluids and to prevent it from sticking during removal. Once the dressing has been removed do not re-bandage your tattoo for any reason.

2. Wash your tattoo with soap and water, but wash your hands first!

This is one of the most important steps in the care of your tattoo. As soon as you remove the dressing wash the tattoo thoroughly with warm water and mild soap (such as Neutrogena). The area will be tender, but it is important to remove any dried blood and fluids. When the tattoo has been thoroughly cleaned, gently pat it dry with a clean towel. Avoid long soaks in bathtubs, hot tubs and pools while your tattoo is healing.

3. Leave your tattoo alone for 2 – 3 days.

Do not put anything on your tattoo for 2 – 3 days or until it feels dry.

4. Lightly moisturize your tattoo.

Once your tattoo feels dry massage a small amount of moisturizer into the tattoo. One product that we highly recommend is Preparation H ointment (not cream) which will relieve itchiness and redness while moisturizing your tattoo. Rub the product in well, ensuring it has all been absorbed. Do this 2 - 4 times daily until your tattoo is healed. NEVER use antibiotic ointments (i.e. Polysporin), Vaseline, aloe, or Vitamin E on your tattoo these will impede the healing process and may lead to color loss in your tattoo.

5. If a scab does form, for gods sake do not pick at it!!!!

Most tattoos heal in 3 - 14 days. When properly cared for by a healthy individual most tattoos are healed with only a light flaking, in about 5 - 7 days. Occasionally a scab will form. If a scab should form, do not pick or scratch at it or “help it” to fall off. If you do pick at the scab a new one will form and you will suffer from color loss. After your initial flake falls off, some people experience a secondary flake. The itchiness that accompanies a healing tattoo is normal. Moisturizing the tattoo will generally ease the itching as will slapping or patting the tattoo.

6. Avoid the sun (and tanning beds)!

Your new tattoo has no sun blocking capabilities and can burn in as little as 5 minutes when in direct sun. A sunburn on a new tattoo will result in excessive scabbing, prolonged healing time, color loss and pain. After your tattoo is fully healed use a high SPF sunblock lotion on it to keep colors from fading over time.

7. If you are not sure, please don’t hesitate to call us!!

Follow these instructions carefully and you will have a crisp, bright tattoo for the rest of your life. Disregard them and you will go through life wondering why your friends tattoo looks better than yours. If you are not sure about the way your tattoo is healing, then give us a call or stop by and let us evaluate your tattoo’s progress.

8. Touch ups

Sometimes even a well cared for tattoo may need a small touch up. Touch ups apply to an area that may have not healed well or needs a little more color added. This service will be provided without charge as long as you have followed all aftercare instructions given to you by your artist and return to see us in the first 8 weeks.