Aftercare
Your tattoo is a wound with art inside. Protect the investment.
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Hours 0–3
Unwrap & first wash
Remove the bandage after a couple of hours. Wash gently with warm water and fragrance-free antibacterial liquid soap, rinse with cool water and let it air-dry.
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Days 1–3
Wash, then a thin layer
Wash 2–3 times a day so plasma, ink and blood never dry into thick scabs. Apply a very thin layer of petroleum-free ointment or balm.
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Days 4–14
Peeling is normal
Flaking and light itching mean healing. Switch to a fragrance-free lotion. Never scratch, never pick.
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Week 2 and on
The long game
Once sealed, sunscreen becomes your tattoo’s best friend. UV is the #1 cause of premature fading.
What to avoid
Standing water
No pools, lakes, rivers or hot tubs until fully healed.
Pet hair
Keep fresh ink away from your (adorable) furry roommates.
Gyms & grime
Shared equipment and sweat are a bacteria buffet. Wait it out.
Direct sun
A fresh tattoo burns fast and fades faster. Shade until healed, SPF forever.
Common concerns
It’s swollen and sore. Is that normal?
Mild swelling and soreness for a few days is expected. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories help. If it gets worse instead of better, contact us or a doctor.
When can I use regular lotion?
After the first week, switch to any fragrance-free lotion whenever the skin feels tight or dry.
It’s flaking and the color looks dull
Totally normal. The tattoo is under a layer of healing skin — the color comes back once it finishes settling.
How do I keep it bright for years?
Sunscreen, moisturizer, and not scratching during the heal. Our clients’ pieces still look great 12 years on.