Tattoo Care Guide

Get plenty of rest the night before your appointment: Being well rested will help you relax during your tattoo and will also help to prepare your body to recover.

Avoid drinking alcohol for 24 hours before your appointment: Alcohol thins your blood and can cause excess bleeding while being tattooed. It is best to avoid drinking the day before and the day of your appointment.

Drink plenty of water leading up to your appointment: Staying hydrated is always good for you but is especially important when you are getting tattooed! Hydrated skin takes ink better and will make the whole process smoother.

Shower: This might seem obvious but it is important to shower prior to your appointment so your skin is a clean canvas.

Don’t worry about body hair: You can shave before your appointment if that is what you are comfortable with but no worries if you don’t! I can take care of that for you.

Eat and bring snacks: I cannot stress this enough. Getting tattooed on an empty stomach is never a good idea, it can make you feel light-headed and increase pain levels. I also recommend bringing snacks to your appointment in case you get hungry throughout the session.

Dress for your session: Wear clothing that is comfortable and allows easy access to the area you are getting tattooed. For example, wear or bring shorts to change into if you are getting your thigh tattooed. If you are being tattooed in an intimate area and aren’t sure what to wear, just ask and I can give you some suggestions!

Don’t be afraid to communicate with me: Communication is key in making sure you get the best tattoo possible. Be open and honest throughout the entire process. For example, if you don’t love the placement of the stencil, tell me! This is going on your body forever and I want you to love it. If you aren’t feeling well or need a break, don’t be afraid to speak up!

Do not show up intoxicated: Another one that seems obvious but may not be. Please show up for your appointment sober.

Bring something to entertain yourself: You might be sitting for several hours for your tattoo so be sure to bring something to entertain yourself. Headphones, a phone or tablet, a book, etc.

Relax: I know this is easier said than done, but the more you can relax during your session, the better it is for everyone. It will help to minimize any pain and will make your experience more enjoyable.

After you leave the shop: Keep your tattoo wrapped for up to two hours then wash your hands, take off the wrapping and thoroughly clean the tattoo with warm water and unscented, antibacterial soap (I recommend Dial). Do not scrub the tattoo or use a washcloth, just wash it with your clean hands. After washing, pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel.

On the first night: Shower before bed using the same unscented, antibacterial soap and pat the area dry again with a clean paper towel.

Once fully dry, apply a thin layer of Aquaphor to the tattoo (just enough to cover the area and not have excess left on the skin) and re-wrap. Only do this on the first night.

The day after: The next morning, unwrap your tattoo and clean the area again with warm water and unscented, antibacterial soap. Pat dry and apply another thin layer of Aquaphor. Do NOT re-wrap the tattoo.

The following days: After the first day, you will need to moisturize and clean the tattoo as needed, up to three times per day. Always using an unscented soap and moisturizer.

Once the tattoo starts to peel, you can switch to using an unscented lotion such as Lubriderm to moisturize your tattoo as needed. You still only need a small amount of lotion, just enough to cover the area.

Helpful Tips for the Entire Healing Process

Throughout the entire healing process (usually around 2 weeks), do not use any soaps or moisturizers with scents or harsh ingredients. Stick to simple formulas like Dial and Lubriderm.

Try to wear loose fitting clothing that will not rub against or stick to your tattoo while it is healing. Be especially careful of bra straps and panty lines that tend to be tighter fitting. If your tattoo is on your foot, try to be barefoot as much as possible. If you must wear socks, wrap your tattoo before putting them on to avoid getting fibers stuck to the area.

Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight while it is healing and never put sunscreen on a healing tattoo.

Do not submerge your tattoo in water including baths, hot tubs, pools, lakes, etc. for at least 2 weeks.

Do not scratch or pick at scabs on your tattoo. I will not touch up tattoos that have been picked at or poorly cared for. If your tattoo itches, you can gently pat it. Never scratch or rub it!

Be careful around pets with your new tattoo. Do not let your dog or cat lick your tattoo and be careful of their claws.

If something goes wrong: I understand that things happen and sometimes you can do everything right and still run into problems. This is extremely rare but is possible. If you run into issues throughout the healing process, please contact me before taking matters into your own hands. I will be able to give you advice and point you in the right direction.

Initial Wrapping:

After your tattoo session, your artist will clean the area and apply a healing ointment. The tattoo will then be covered with sterile pads and wrapped securely with Sensi-wrap, sealing both the top and bottom.

Same-Day Care:

Within a few hours, carefully remove the initial wrap.

Shower with lukewarm water using a fragrance-free, antibacterial soap (such as

Dial Gold).

Gently wash the tattoo using only clean hands-no cloths or loofahs.

Pat dry with a clean paper towel, then let the area air dry for 5-10 minutes.

Apply a thin layer of healing ointment as advised by your artist.

Reapply non-stick pads and fresh Sensi-wrap.

Repeat this process once more before bed.

First 48 Hours:

Continue the cleaning, air-drying, moisturizing, and wrapping routine twice a day-morning and evening.

On the second day, consider a midday wrap change if the area is moist or sweaty.

Always use clean materials and fresh wraps.

After 48 Hours (Starting Day 3):

You can stop wrapping the tattoo.

Continue to shower and clean the area gently once a day.

Apply a thin layer of ointment or recommended cream 3-4 times a day.

Be sure to wash hands and lightly cleanse the tattoo before each application.

When Peeling Begins:

Discontinue use of healing creams or ointments.

Switch to a fragrance-free, gentle lotion such as Lubriderm or Aveeno Hand

Lotion.

Apply just enough to keep the area moisturized without over-saturating.

Important Notes for Blackwork Healing:

Heavy blackwork tattoos tend to weep more and may feel warmer than lighter work-this is normal. Stick to the cleaning schedule closely.

Avoid picking, scratching, or over-moisturizing the area.

Wear loose-fitting clothing and avoid pressure or rubbing against the tattoo. Keep the area out of direct sunlight, and do not swim, soak, or expose the tattoo to excessive moisture for at least 2 weeks.

If you notice unusual swelling, prolonged redness, or signs of infection, reach out to your artist or a medical professional.

I offer touch ups within 6 months after the date of your appointment. I will only offer a touch up if you have followed these instructions.

It usually takes around 4 weeks for a tattoo to fully heal. Everyone is different so this time can vary. It is never going to hurt to give it extra time to heal so always lean toward giving your body plenty of time.

Keep it moisturized: Tattoos will always look better more vibrant when your skin is moisturized!

Protect your ink from the sun: To prevent fading and keep your tattoo looking awesome, always use sunscreen on your tattoos when you know they are going to be getting a lot of exposure (only after they are fully healed). Getting sun burnt not only sucks but can really increase the chances of your tattoo fading.

Enjoy showing off your artwork!