Aftercare

Removing the Bandage

If the bandage is difficult to remove from your tattoo, run cool water over it to help saturate and loosen it.

The bandage should then peel off on its own. This process may take a few minutes, but it helps avoid any damage to the tattoo.

Washing the Tattoo

Gently wash your tattoo with cool water and a mild, unscented antibacterial soap like Soft Soap® or Dial@. Use your fingers to lather the soap on the tattoo. Once the tattoo is clean and feels smooth, rinse thoroughly. (If you're showering, avoid letting the direct water stream hit the tattoo. Allow the water to flow over the body above it, letting it trickle down. Also, make sure the tattoo is the last part of your body washed to avoid contact with other shower products.) Be sure to wash your tattoo twice a day.

Drying the Tattoo

Use a clean paper towel to gently press on your tattoo, absorbing the water and any excess fluid (never wipe or rub your tattoo once healing begins). Once the tattoo stops weeping fluid, apply an ice pack wrapped in a paper towel to help close the pores. Always use a fresh paper towel. Avoid using cloth towels, as they may contain bacteria that can cause infection. Do not over-ice the tattoo, as this can restrict blood flow.

Moisturizing

Apply an unscented, daily hand lotion like Curel®, Lubriderm®, or Jergens®. Choose a water-based lotion with little or no Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, or fragrance. Avoid petroleum-based products like A&D® or Vani-Cream® as they can cause irritation or fading. Using petroleum-based lotions can also void your touch-up warranty.

Apply lotion 1 to 2 times a day for the first year. Massage the lotion fully into the skin until no product remains on the surface (at this point, the skin should appear dry).

General Aftercare Tips:

Air is good for your tattoo: Let your tattoo breathe by avoiding re-wrapping it.

Don't over-moisturize: Too much lotion can cause scabbing and may pull color out of the tattoo.

Avoid direct water exposure on your tattoo.

Avoid swimming or soaking your tattoo for 30 days.

Stay away from natural water sources (like lakes, pools, or hot tubs) and well water, as they can introduce bacteria and lead to infection.

Signs of an infected tattoo include:

• Redness and swelling: Persistent or increasing redness and swelling ground the tattoo site.
• Pain and tenderness: Increased pain or tenderness that may radiate beyond the tattoo area.
• Pus or discharge: Yellow or green pus or discharge coming from the tattoo.
• Bumps or blisters: Small bumps or blisters that may contain pus.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the infection from spreading and causing serious complications.