Gently wash your tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Avoid scrubbing; use your hands to clean the area. Pat it dry with a clean paper towel. Do this 2-3 times a day for the first week.

Your artist will typically recommend removing the bandage 2-4 hours after your session. After removing it, wash your tattoo and apply a thin layer of the recommended ointment. Be sure to follow your artist’s specific instructions.

Use a fragrance-free, alcohol-free moisturizer like Aquaphor or a tattoo-specific aftercare balm. Apply a thin layer to avoid suffocating the tattoo. Avoid lotions with scents or heavy chemicals.

Yes! Peeling and light scabbing are part of the healing process. Don’t pick at scabs or peel the skin. Let your tattoo heal naturally to avoid damaging the ink.

Avoid swimming, soaking in baths, or hot tubs for at least 2-3 weeks until your tattoo is fully healed. Submerging the tattoo in water can lead to infection and slow down the healing process.

On the surface, a tattoo typically heals within 2-3 weeks. However, deeper layers of the skin may take up to 6 weeks to fully heal. Follow aftercare instructions during this time for the best results.

If you notice signs of infection, such as excessive redness, swelling, pus, or fever, contact your doctor right away. While infections are rare if proper aftercare is followed, it’s essential to seek medical attention if something doesn’t seem right.