CLEAN.CUSTOM.TATTOOING

CONGRATS, YOU'RE DONE!  Now what...

• I will wrap your tattoo with either plastic wrap or a bandage. Leave this wrapping on for at least 2-3 hours, and for a maximum of 5 hours unless otherwise stated.

• Remove your bandage and, with clean hands, wash your tattoo ​throughly with warm water and liquid antibacterial soap (I recommend Dr.Brauner's or Orange Dial hand soap). It's ok to wash your tattoo in the shower,  just don't let the water beat on it.  Make sure to wash away all of the plasma and ointment that may be on your tattoo. Pat it completely dry with a clean paper towel, making sure that there is no extra moisture on the tattoo. Do not dry your fresh tattoo with a bath towel, as they harbor bacteria.

• After your tattoo is completely dry, you may apply a very small amount (chapstick thin layer) of Auquaphor, A&D ointment, or other aftercare that we may have discussed. Rule of thumb, if your tattoo looks wet after 10 minutes of applying ointment, you've put too much.  Pat dry the excess ointment with a clean paper towel.  

• Repeat the process of washing it, patting it dry, and putting a thin layer of ointment on it for the first 2-3 days, 2-3 times a day.  ​(Only if we discussed wrapping your tattoo rather than using ointment, you will follow the same steps of washing and drying, but instead of applying ointment, when tattoo is completely dry, apply clean plastic wrap to your tattoo sealing all edges) DO NOT USE OINTMENT AND WRAP TOGETHER

• For the first 3-4 days, technically your tattoo is an open wound and should be treated like such.  Avoid public gym equipment or anything excessively dirty to the area if it can be avoided.  Exercise or activity is fine, just avoid any excessive rubbing or chaffing against the tattoo and be sure to clean your tattoo immediately afterwards.

​

• After the first 3-4 days, your tattoo is no longer an open wound.  You can stop the washing/ointment process.  You may apply a small amount of unscented lotion to your tattoo if you feel like it is getting too uncomfortable, but it is best to keep it relatively dry for the first week. After the first week, you may use lotion as often as you like.

• Your tattoo will flake, itch, and possibly scab while healing. This is completely normal and is not cause for concern. Do not pick, scratch, or pull any scabs. Please avoid long and steamy hot showers, and do not soak your fresh tattoo for at least 2 weeks (no ocean, pool, hot tub, jacuzzi, bath, or large fun puddles). Avoid direct sunlight on your tattoo. If your tattoo is fresh, keep it covered under clothing while out in the sun. Once it is healed, you can apply high SPF sunblock on your tattoo. The sun will age your tattoo very quickly if not cared for properly.  

​​

• Your tattoo should be fully healed in about a month. If you have any questions about aftercare, please do not hesitate to contact me!