ULTIMATE TATTOO AFTERCARE GUIDE
Congratulations on your new tattoo!
The fun part is showing it off, but the real magic happens when you take care of it. Think of it as a team effort—you and your tattoo working together to heal into something amazing. Aftercare is crucial for both of us: for me as the artist, it ensures my work heals beautifully, preserving the time and effort spent creating your tattoo. For you, proper aftercare prevents infections, promotes vibrant results, and extends your tattoo’s longevity. Together, aftercare represents our shared responsibility in achieving the best possible outcome for your artwork.
Every artist has their own aftercare approach, and these instructions are my tried-and-true guide to keeping it simple and effective. Let’s dive in!
The Ultimate Tattoo Aftercare Guide – 2 Expert Methods
You have two options for healing your new tattoo—both are straightforward and designed to promote vibrant, lasting results. Choose the method that works best for you, or let me decide which option suits your tattoo best.
Method 1: Traditional Healing
- Initial Wrap:
After your tattoo session, I’ll clean your tattoo and wrap it with a plastic saran barrier.- Leave this wrap on for 1–2 hours.
- Washing Your Tattoo:
- Remove the wrap and wash your tattoo gently with a mild antibacterial soap (I recommend Dial Antibacterial hand soap).
- Rinse thoroughly—water temperature is up to your comfort.
- Pat dry with a clean paper towel.
- Applying Aftercare:
- Apply Recovery Aftercare Ointment sparingly, and gently work into your new tattoo until gone. *Important: Less is more! Apply a small amount and rub it in like you would hand lotion. Avoid leaving a thick or even thin layer. NO LAYERS!
- Repeat several times daily for the first 3 days. If your tattoo feels dry or itchy, it’s time to reapply.
- Switch to Lotion (Day 4):
- On day 4, stop using ointments and switch to an unscented, alcohol-free lotion (I recommend Aquaphor Advance Therapy).
- Apply as needed for 3–4 weeks, moisturizing several times daily.
Method 2: Recovery Derm-Shield Healing
Note: This method is used at the artist’s discretion and also has an additional $20 fee. Derm-Shield may not be suitable for tattoos in certain areas, such as joints or large creases between bones, where movement can affect the bandage’s effectiveness. If you don’t have a preference, I will choose the best option for your tattoo.
- Initial Bandage:
After completing your tattoo, I’ll clean, dry, and apply Recovery Derm-Shield—a breathable, waterproof, and adhesive bandage designed specifically for tattoo aftercare.- This bandage stays on for 24–48 hours.
- It creates a protective barrier to prevent dirt and scabbing while maintaining a moist healing environment.
- Pooling Under the Bandage:
- You may notice fluid pooling under the bandage—this is completely normal! You are actually healing at this stage without having to do anything! The fluid is plasma and ink from the fresh tattoo and helps create the ideal healing environment. So let’s keep that gooey goodness under that shield!
- I’ll send you home with additional patch pieces so you can seal any leaks if needed.
- Bandage Removal:
- After 24–48 hours, remove the Derm-Shield and wash your tattoo gently with mild antibacterial soap.
- Pat dry and move directly to Aquaphor lotion.
- Moisturizing with Aquaphor:
- Follow the same instructions as Method 1—apply a small amount of Aquaphor, rubbing it in gently until gone, for 3–4 weeks.
Additional Tips
- Healing Time: Your tattoo may look healed in a week, but it takes a full 3–4 weeks to complete the healing process.
- If you experience soreness, rashes, or anything unusual, reach out to me immediately. I’m here to help resolve any concerns during your healing journey.
By following either method, you’ll set your tattoo up for successful healing. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact me. Enjoy your new tattoo and thank you for trusting me with your art!
Want to learn more about aftercare? Check out my other article: Tattoo Healing – The Ultimate Guide
