· Caring for you new tattoo is extremely important. You have invested your time, money and perhaps endured some discomfort receiving a great tattoo. Poor aftercare or the lack of care can destroy a great tattoo. Proper aftercare will ensure your tattoo will remain a quality piece of body art.
· A new Tattoo is equivalent to a second-degree burn. It will take about 10-14 days with proper care for it to heal. It will peel or flake in about 4-5 days. There will be some color in the peeling skin. Don’t worry, this is normal. In the first weeks, your new tattoo may not look as “crisp” as it did when it was first applied; the colors may not look as strong, or it may have an overall “hazy” look to it. Don’t be alarmed, it is a normal course of healing and will clear up in a few short weeks.
· After 2 hours remove the initial tattoo dressing. There may be some seeping from your tattoo; in some cases this may last a day or two. There may be some color in this seeping, don’t panic as this is normal. A new tattoo will heal best when left uncovered; however, you should cover it with a non-stick bandage for the first 4-5 nights. This helps to prevent your new tattoo from drying out while sleeping. Everyone heals at a different rate. If you need to, continue to cover your new tattoo into the second week.
· You will need to keep your new tattoo moisturized to the touch for the full 14 days. If you do not keep your new tattoo moist, it will form a scab. Scabbing is an indication of neglect. When the scab falls off it will pull the detail and color from your new tattoo. With proper care you will prevent your new tattoo from scabbing.
· Keep your new tattoo clean. Washing it will help to promote healing and reduce the amount of pimples that can be caused from the ointment clogging the pores in your skin. You can briefly wash your tattoo one to two times daily with an antibacterial soap and warm water. Be careful not to soak your new tattoo during this process. Use your hand and not a washcloth. A washcloth may be too abrasive. Next, gently blot dry with a clean towel. Once it is dry, apply your ointment or lotion.
· Do not scratch, soak, or expose your new tattoo to the sun during the healing process. If it itches, gently slap it. DO NOT SCRATCH. Take showers not baths during the healing process. No swimming, hot tubs etc. U.V rays are very harmful to any tattoo. Keep your new tattoo covered with clothing when you are out in the sun. Remember, the healing process will take 2 weeks.
· After your new tattoo has healed, it is a good idea to protect it from U.V rays by applying a good sunscreen. To help keep your colors bright, it’s a good idea to use a quality skin lotion every day.
· Once you leave the establishment, proper care for your new tattoo is your responsibility. Lack of proper care and disregard of these instructions can result in ink loss and potential infection. If care instructions are followed properly, infection will be avoided, resulting in a quality piece of art.