Tattoo Aftercare

The Basics

Tattoos typically take around 2 weeks to heal but this can vary due to factors such as lifestyle, location of the tattoo, and skin type. Generally, keeping your tattoo clean is the most important part of the healing process. A fresh tattoo is an open wound and should be treated carefully for the first few weeks, When washing your tattoo it's best to use non-scented liquid soaps.

When you leave from your tattoo appointment your tattoo will be bandaged in one of two ways: 
-Second-skin or Tagaderm/Hypafix style bandage
-Plastic wrap/Absorbent pads

Second Skin 
If your tattoo was bandaged using the Second-skin style bandage, you can keep the bandage on for up to 5 days. Feel free to take it off sooner if it bothers your skin, if you notice any leaking or if the bandage is compromised in any way. A buildup of liquid and plasma is generally expected and nothing to worry about, When you decide to take off the bandage, it is recommended to slowly peel it off in the shower under some warm water. After the bandage is removed, wash the slimy plasma off the tattoo with soap and water.

Plastic wrap/Absorbent Pads
If your tattoo was bandaged using plastic wrap or absorbent pads, you can leave the bandage on for 4-8 hours, or leave on overnight. When you take off the wrap, wash the tattoo with soap and water until all the plasma is removed. 

The Following Days

Continue washing your tattoo as recommended above a couple times a day. Plasma and buildup may still be coming off for the first few days. You'll notice the tattoo eventually get dry and flakey. At that point its okay to use some unscented moisturizer or aftercare products on the tattoo. You don't need to use very much. The dry and flakey stage usually lasts for a week or two.

Basic Tips for Aftercare

-Don't pick scabs
-Avoid Polysporin or antibiotic ointments unless you suspect you have an infection
-Wear clean clothing, sleep on clean bedding and try your best to keep your tattoo away from any sources of bacteria
-Avoid swimming and soaking for the first few weeks
-Avoid sun exposure for the first few weeks
-Dry your tattoo off with clean paper towel or clean towels throughout the process if possible

Tattoos go through several stages during the healing process and can look weird as hell sometimes, so don't panic. If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to your artist.