SECOND SKIN BANDAGE
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Keep the adhesive bandage on for a maximum of 3 to 4 days. Since it is breathable and waterproof, you can shower with it. DO NOT use hot water. The adhesive bandage protects your new tattoo from scabbing, infection, and other irritants. The longer you are able to keep it on, the more your tattoo will be able to heal while bandaged.
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If you notice some fluid build up beneath the adhesive bandage and/or your tattoo starts looking blurry, it's just plasma! It is completely normal and helps with the healing process. Do not try to make perforations on the bandage. If the bandage starts leaking, you notice a perforation or any allergic reaction, remove it immediately.
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To remove the bandage simply run warm water (not hot) on top of your tattoo to help loosen the adhesive. Avoid pulling upward or tearing it off quickly. Instead, gently pull from the corners in the direction where the skin hair grows. Once the bandage is removed or if it has fallen off on its own, follow the steps below.
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STANDARD BANDAGE
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If recommended by your tattoo artist, you will use a standard bandage and leave it on for 24 hours. Then you will follow steps listed down below.
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TATTOO CARE
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1. Wash your hands well with a mild fragrance-free liquid antibacterial soap before touching your new tattoo. I recommend Dial or Aveeno. AVOID using perfumed/scented soaps.
 
2. Rinse your tattoo with warm water (not hot) and wash your tattoo using the same soap, then pat down with a clean paper towel or air dry until completely dry.
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3. Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free, non-greasy, dye-free tattoo ointment 3–4 times a day. I recommend Hustle Butter or any cream made specifically for tattoos. Avoid petroleum-based products like A+D, Bepanthen, Aquaphor, Vaseline, Bacitracin, and Neosporin. Although Aquaphor is widely used and works well for bold, deep tattoos, it’s not ideal for shallow, high-detail work like fine-line or micro-realism—it can be too occlusive and affect healing.
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4. After using the tattoo ointment for a week, time to change to a lightweight lotion such as Lubriderm or coconut oil for the next 3 to 5 weeks or until your tattoo is fully healed. 
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5. Keep your tattoo clean and moisturized at all times. If possible, change to freshly washed bed sheets, clothes, and towel during the healing process.  Disposable paper towels are great for direct contact with the tattoo when washing or drying.
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6. Remember that the better you take care of your healed tattoo, the better it will look over the years. I recommend continuing to moisturize it even after it's fully healed to help prolong its life.
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WHAT TO EXPECT?
 
Over the first few days the tattoo will become flaky, dry, and tight. If a scab forms, it will be the color of the ink used. This does not mean the ink is going to fall out. Leave the scabs and let them fall off naturally. Do not pick or scratch the area. The tattoo may appear dull until it has completely healed - this is normal and will go away after a few weeks. Wear loose clothing over the area to prevent abrasion to the tattoo.
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DO NOT!
 
·       Do not pick, peel, or scratch your new tattoo.
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·      Avoid drinking alcohol for at least 48-72 hours after getting your tattoo. This could impact how your tattoo heals. 
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·      Avoid any high intensity training for at least 2 weeks after getting your tattoo, as would be in contact with unsanitary surfaces, abrasive clothing, and sweat can cause irritation, additional scarring and even infection.
 
·       Do not, under any circumstance, use rubbing alcohol, peroxide, or cortisone on your new tattoo.
 
·       Do not use sponges, washcloths, or anything abrasive while cleaning your tattoo. They harbor bacteria and may irritate or harm your tattoo.
 
·       Do not let anyone touch your new tattoo.
 
·       Do not go into a lake, bathtub, pool, or similar for at least 4 weeks after getting your tattoo. These all contain bacteria and can infect your new tattoo.
 
·       Do not expose your tattoo to the sun, especially during the first few weeks of healing. When your tattoo is fully healed, if you decide to expose it to the sun, I recommend applying a good SPF sunscreen over it—this will help prolong the life of your tattoo.
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TOUCH-UP SESSION
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Before deciding if your tattoo needs a touch-up, please allow at least 5 weeks for it to fully heal.
Please note that free touch-ups are not automatically included in the final price of your tattoo. They are offered solely at the artist’s discretion and are typically explained and discussed during your appointment. While I’m open to offering them when appropriate, each case is unique and assessed individually, and not every tattoo will qualify. To learn more about my Touch-Up Policy or to inquire about a touch-up session, click here.
 
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Enjoy your new tattoo! If you have any questions, do not hesitate to email me!