Proper aftercare is essential to ensure your tattoo heals beautifully. Think of your fresh tattoo as an open wound—it needs to be kept clean and protected. We offer two recommended aftercare methods: Saniderm Wrap Method and Traditional Aftercare Method.

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First & Foremost: What to Avoid

To prevent infection and ensure the best healing results, please avoid the following:

🚫 No soaking in water (baths, pools, hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms) for 2-3 weeks or until fully healed. Showers are okay, but keep your tattoo out of direct water exposure.
🚫 No scratching, picking, or peeling—scabbing and peeling are part of the natural healing process. Let the skin flake off naturally.
🚫 No tanning or prolonged sun exposure for at least 2-3 weeks. Sunburn can delay healing and fade your tattoo.
🚫 No tight, restrictive clothing over the tattooed area—your skin needs to breathe.
🚫 No touching your healing tattoo with dirty hands! Always wash your hands first.

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What to Expect During Healing

• Redness, swelling, irritation, and possible bruising—normal for the first 1-3 days (up to a week for sensitive areas like feet).

• Scabbing & peeling—common during days 3-10. Do not pick at scabs; let them fall off naturally.

• Itching—expected but do not scratch! A light slap over clothing can help relieve the itch.

• Bubbling—if excess moisture gets trapped, stop applying ointments and allow the tattoo to dry out.

 

Saniderm Method (Recommended)

If your artist applied Saniderm, follow these steps:

1. Leave the Saniderm wrap on for 3-24 hours, depending on how much fluid your tattoo leaks. If you see excessive fluid buildup, remove it sooner.

2. To remove: Do so in a warm shower to loosen the adhesive. Find an edge and pull gently in the direction of hair growth.

3. After removal: Wash with unscented antibacterial soap and warm water.

4. You can apply another Saniderm patch for 3-5 days or switch to the traditional aftercare method below.

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Traditional Aftercare Method (or After Saniderm Removal)

1. Wash hands thoroughly before touching your tattoo.

2. For the next two weeks, Gently clean the tattoo twice a day (morning & night) with mild antibacterial soap and cool water. Do not rub—pat dry with a clean paper towel.

3. Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment (Bacitracin, Neomycin-Polymyxin) 2-4 times a day for 3 days.

4. After 3 days, switch to a fragrance-free lotion (or tattoo goo, hustle butter, or aquaphor) to keep the skin hydrated. Avoid over-moisturizing.

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Signs of Infection – When to Seek Medical Attention

Contact a healthcare provider if you experience:
❌ Excessive redness, swelling, or tenderness beyond normal healing.
❌ A rash, unusual drainage, or pus coming from the tattoo.
❌ Fever within 24 hours of getting your tattoo.

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Touch-Ups

We stand by our work! If your tattoo needs a touch-up, we offer complimentary touch-ups within 90 days. If you’re out of town, reach out, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.

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By following these aftercare steps, you’ll ensure your tattoo heals properly and looks its best. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out!