the last step is yours
Aftercare
A great tattoo is half the artist and half the heal. Follow this and your ink stays sharp for decades.
- Day 1
Leave the wrap on
Keep the wrap on for 2 to 4 hours (or as long as your artist says). Then wash gently with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap, pat dry with a clean paper towel, and let it breathe for a few minutes.
- Days 2 to 14
Wash, dry, thin layer of balm
Wash twice a day. Apply a very thin layer of balm, just enough to shine. It will peel and itch. Do not pick, scratch or scrub it, no matter how tempting.
- Weeks 3 to 4
Switch to lotion
The top layer is healed but the deeper skin is still settling. Moisturize daily with plain unscented lotion and keep it out of direct sun.
- Forever
Sunscreen is your best friend
UV fades ink faster than anything. Once fully healed, SPF 30+ on your tattoo whenever it's in the sun.
Do
- Wash your hands before touching it
- Use fragrance-free soap
- Wear loose, clean clothes
- Drink lots of water
- Call us if something looks off
Don't
- Pick or scratch scabs
- Soak it: no pools, hot tubs or baths for 2 weeks
- Slather on thick ointment
- Sun-tan or use tanning beds
- Re-wrap it once the first wrap is off
Heal it right
Aftercare, shipped
The same balm and kit we send our clients home with.