Aftercare instructions
Happy healing ♡
Congrats on your new tattoo! Taking care of it properly is just as important as the tattoo itself. Follow these steps to keep it clean, happy, and healing beautifully.
The first 24 hours
- Wash your hands before touching your tattoo.
- Follow the instructions I gave you for removing your bandage or wrap.
- Once uncovered, gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and unscented antibacterial or gentle soap.
- Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Don't rub or scrub.
- Let the tattoo fully air dry before applying any aftercare product.
While it's healing
- Keep your tattoo clean and lightly moisturized.
- Apply a very thin layer of aftercare. I recommend Hustle Butter, but unscented Lubriderm or a small amount of Aquaphor can also be used.
- Don't over-moisturize! Your tattoo should never be sitting under a thick, greasy layer of product.
- Wash gently as needed, especially if the tattoo gets sweaty or dirty.
- Wear clean, loose-fitting clothing over the area whenever possible.
Please don't ♡
- Don't scratch, pick, or peel any flakes or scabs. Let them fall off naturally.
- No baths, pools, hot tubs, lakes, or soaking the tattoo until it's fully healed.
- Avoid direct sunlight while healing.
- Avoid excessive friction or anything that repeatedly rubs against the tattoo.
- Don't apply scented lotions, perfumes, or harsh products to the area.
Some redness, tenderness, mild swelling, itching, flaking, and light scabbing can be normal during healing.
If you notice redness that continues spreading or worsening, increasing warmth, swelling, or pain, pus-like drainage, fever, red streaking, or anything else that seems concerning, contact a healthcare professional.
Once it's healed
Protect your tattoo from the sun! Regular SPF 30+ helps keep your tattoo looking crisp and beautiful for years. I do free touch-ups, so if your tattoo fades or you want something altered after it's fully healed, reach out to me and I'll take care of you!
Happy healing ♡