Before and After Tattoo Care Instructions

Prior to your tattoo session, it's important to get a good night's sleep, eat a healthy meal, and stay hydrated. Avoid consuming alcohol, coffee, or taking blood-thinning medications before getting tattooed. Dress in comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed. If you are on any blood thinning medications please let your artist know prior to the appointment. If you have any specific concerns or questions about preparation, feel free to discuss them with your artist. 

After to your tattoo session, especially a long one, we highly recommend getting something to eat and staying hydrated! Listen to your body, some sessions can be tough. After hours of tattooing, sometimes all you need is some food and a nap! The tattooed area may feel warm and sore, be very gentle with your body as you continue about your day to minimize any extra discomfort. 

If your artist wrapped your new tattoo with an adhesive based wrap, Saniderm/Dermshield/etc, your artist will instruct you with specific directions as each brand tends to have their own method of care for the wrapping. For a general instruction, please read;

1. Leave the bandage on for no more the  3 days: With this method, your artist will carefully apply the adhesive wrapping. Keep it on for the time recommended by your tattoo artist, usually around 2-3 days.
2. Wash your hands: Before touching your new tattoo, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent any potential infections.
3. Gently wash the tattoo: After carefully removing the wrap, gently wash the tattooed area with mild, fragrance-free antimicrobial soap and lukewarm water. Use your hand, not a washcloth or sponge, to avoid unnecessary friction. Pat the area dry with a clean, soft, disposable towel. Do not reuse any disposable towels!
4. Apply a thin layer of ointment: Use a recommended tattoo aftercare ointment or a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic ointment to keep the tattoo moisturized. Apply a thin layer, just enough to cover the tattoo. Repeat this process 2-3 times a day for the first few days.
5. Avoid picking or scratching: It's essential to resist the temptation to scratch or pick at your healing tattoo, as it can lead to scarring or color loss.
6. Wear loose clothing: For the first few days, avoid wearing tight clothing that can rub against your tattoo. Choose loose, breathable fabrics to prevent irritation.
7. Keep the tattoo dry: While your tattoo heals, avoid soaking it in water, such as swimming or taking long baths. Showers are generally safer, but try to keep the tattooed area away from direct water pressure.
8. Avoid direct sunlight: Protect your healing tattoo from the sun. Ultraviolet rays can fade the ink and damage the delicate healing skin. Do not apply sunscreen to a fresh or not fully healed tattoo! This may cause irritation or a burning sensation and will hinder the healing process. Once the tattoo is completely healed, sunscreen is highly recommended as part of your body care routine to maintain your tattoo's longevity. 
9. Stay away from pools and saunas: Public pools and saunas may harbor bacteria that can infect your healing tattoo. It's best to avoid these environments until your tattoo is fully healed.
10. Don't apply excessive ointment: While moisturizing is essential, applying too much ointment can suffocate the tattoo and delay healing. Use a thin layer each time.
11. Avoid intense physical activities: Try to avoid activities that cause excessive sweating or friction on the tattooed area until it's healed.
12. Be patient: Healing time varies depending on the size and location of the tattoo, as well as individual factors. On average, it takes about 2-4 weeks for a tattoo to fully heal. During this time, be patient and follow the aftercare instructions diligently.

If you have any concerns about your tattoo's healing process or notice any signs of infection or unexpected irritation, consult your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional promptly. Remember that each tattoo artist may have specific aftercare instructions, so always follow their advice for the best results.

If your artist wrapped your new tattoo with a traditional cling/plastic based wrap, leave the wrapping on until you get home or before going to bed. When removing the wrapping, wash your hands and be careful as you peel off the plastic wrap. Healing guidelines are very similar here to the adhesive wrap method!

• Gently wash the tattoo with mild, fragrance-free antimicrobial soap and lukewarm water. Use your hand, not a washcloth or sponge, to avoid unnecessary friction. Pat the area dry with a clean, soft, disposable towel. Do not reuse any disposable towels!
• Apply another thin layer of ointment to the entire tattoo
• Repeat this process 2-3 times a day for the first few days of healing, then you may be able to lower the routine to 1-2 times a day until the tattoo is fully healed.
• Do not pick or scratch at the tattoo! If you have an itch, always wash your hands before touching the tattoo area, and be extremely gentle!
• Avoid submerging in water, saunas, sunlight, excessive workouts/sweating, and don't over-apply ointment!
• Be patient with healing, on average it takes about 2-4 weeks for a nice full heal.

If you have any concerns about your tattoo's healing process or notice any signs of infection or unexpected irritation, consult your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional promptly. Remember that each tattoo artist may have specific aftercare instructions, so always follow their advice for the best results.

Ointments - Toad and Turnip, Hustle Butter, ointments geared towards tattoo healing specifically. Gentle, fragrance free lotions. Always check ingredients!

Soaps - Toad and Turnip, Hustle Butter Foam Soap, Dial Gold, anything fragrance free and antibacterial/antimicrobial. 

Any high petroleum based ointments, like Vaseline. Do not use any straight oils like coconut oil during the healing process. Do not use any heavy fragrance lotions or soaps on a fresh tattoo. Do not use sunscreen on a fresh tattoo as this may cause irritation.