This is our general aftercare advice, though your individual artist’s aftercare advice may vary.

1) Keep your bandage on for at least 8 hours. For best results, leave it on overnight. This ensures your tattoo is protected from bacteria that can cause infection, and will reduce the likelihood of scabbing. Don’t take it off early to show Mom, Dad, or Buddy.

2) When you remove the bandage, gently wash away blood or film that is left on or around the tattoo with warm water & clean hands*. Gently pat dry and moisturize with a plain white unscented lotion, such as Lubriderm.

3) Continue to moisturize your tattoo approximately 3-6 times a day, or as needed. It doesn’t need to be saturated, but enough to prevent scabbing, which can draw ink from the tattoo. You may notice that when you apply the lotion, the ink seems to peel away upon contact. This is normal and positive, as it means that your body has bypassed scabbing and healed by peeling away gently.

4) If your tattoo does scab, Do Not Scratch! Though it may be itchy, it will not help to scratch or pick the area. It will come off slowly on its own. Tap it lightly to alleviate discomfort. If you moisturize appropriately from the start, scabbing can be avoided, your diligence can help to avoid the need for future touch ups.

5) Water can have a drying effect on the skin, causing scabbing. Never submerge your tattoo under any water such as pools, lakes, or hot tubs until your tattoo is completely finished healing. Also before you shower, and especially after, apply a layer of lotion to protect it.

6) Tattoos do fade a small amount as years pass. However, prolonged exposure to UV rays (sunshine or tanning beds) will cause a tattoo to fade far before it would naturally. This can be avoided by covering your healed tattoo with sunblock before exposure. We want the best for your ink too, so… do what you’re told!