Pre-Tattoo Tips &
Tattoo Aftercare

Proper aftercare is essential for healing and for keeping your tattoo looking its best. Please follow the instructions below carefully.

1. Second Skin / Initial Bandage Care

After your tattoo is finished, your artist will cover it with a protective bandage.

• Leave the bandage on for up to 5 days, or exactly as directed by your artist.

• Do not remove it early unless:

  • you are having an allergic reaction,

  • the bandage is torn or leaking,

  • a corner peels up and exposes the tattoo.

• Do not re-bandage the tattoo.

• It is normal to see some fluid trapped under the bandage. This is part of the healing process.

2. When Removing the Bandage

After the recommended time:

• Wash your hands thoroughly first.

• Gently remove the bandage.

• Wash the tattoo with mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water.

• Do not scrub.

• Pat dry gently with a clean paper towel or clean towel.

3. Daily Care During Healing

Once the bandage is removed:

• Apply a thin layer of the aftercare product recommended by your artist.

• Keep the tattoo clean and lightly moisturized.

• Wash and moisturize 2–3 times daily for the first 2–3 weeks.

• Do not over-apply ointment. A thin layer is enough.

4. What to Expect

During healing, your tattoo may:

• feel dry or tight,

• peel or flake,

• form light scabs,

• feel slightly itchy.

This is normal. Do not pick, scratch, or peel the skin, as this can affect healing and cause ink loss.

5. What to Avoid

For at least the first 3 weeks:

• No swimming

• No baths or soaking

• No saunas

• No excessive sweating or heavy workouts

• No direct contact with animals

• Avoid direct sun exposure on the tattooed area

6. Long-Term Healing

After the first 2–3 weeks, continue moisturizing as needed while the skin finishes healing.

Even after the surface looks healed, the skin may still be recovering underneath. Keep the area protected and avoid unnecessary irritation. Larger tattoos can take longer to fully settle.

7. When to Contact Us

Please contact us if:

• the tattoo looks unusually irritated,

• you think you may be having a reaction to the bandage,

• you have questions during healing.

If you notice possible signs of infection, seek medical attention promptly.

8. Touch-Up Policy

If your tattoo looks patchy or faded after 1 month of healing, you may contact us about a touch-up.

Please do not request a touch-up before the 1-month mark, as the tattoo must be fully healed first.