Tattoo Aftercare

PHASE 1: THE PROTECTIVE BARRIER

  • Keep wrap on for 3 full days. (If using a traditional pad, remove after 2-4 hours).
  • Removal: Remove in the shower under warm water. Stretch the skin/wrap away from the tattoo; do not rip it upward.

PHASE 2: CLEANING & DRYING

  • Wash: Use bare hands and plain, unscented soap (Dove/Dial). Gently wash away plasma; do not scrub.
  • Dry: Air dry or gently pat with a clean paper towel. No bath towels.

PHASE 3: MOISTURIZING

  • Lotion: Apply a thin layer of plain, unscented lotion (Jergens/Lubriderm) to dry skin.
  • Ointment: You may apply a very thin layer of Aquaphor over lotion to lock in moisture.
  • Approved: Hustle Butter, Mad Rabbit, or Base Laboratories.
  • Frequency: Wash 2–3x daily. Moisturize 2x daily or as needed.
  • Note: Use antibacterial soap only once every other day to prevent drying.

THE GOLDEN RULES

  • NO PICKING/SCRATCHING: This pulls ink out and causes permanent scarring.
  • ITCHING: Smack or pat gently. Bactine can be used on clean, dry skin to reduce itch and swelling.
  • NO SWIMMING/SUN: No pools, hot tubs, or direct sun for at least 2 weeks.

FREE TOUCH-UP POLICY

  • Single-Session Tattoos: If needed, one complimentary touch-up may be available within approximately 6–8 weeks of the tattoo appointment.
  • Multi-Session Tattoos: The touch-up window begins only after the final session has been completed and the finished project has healed.
  • Booking: Contact or book through your original tattoo booking method.
  • Eligibility: Complimentary touch-ups are intended for minor pigment loss caused by normal healing.
  • Void Policy: Picking, scratching, improper aftercare, sun exposure, submersion, trauma, or other preventable damage may void complimentary touch-up eligibility.
  • Not Included: Design changes, added detail, unfinished portions of an active project, or additions requested after completion are not complimentary touch-ups.

HEALTH & INFECTIONS

  • Disclaimer: I am not a physician. If you suspect an infection (red streaks, extreme swelling, yellow/green discharge, or fever), seek medical assistance immediately.