Thank you for taking care of your tattoo!
This is one of the most important steps in getting a tattoo! Here are some basic outlines on how to best treat your new ink. Keep in mind that everyone heals differently, so if your timeline or needs vary slightly, don’t worry!
If you received a tattoo from me, it has been done under sanitary conditions, using the best sterilization techniques, quality equipment and disposables, and best tattoo pigments. Please contact me or your physician if you experience any unreasonable discomfort that cause you concern.
Are you using Saniderm, Derm Shield, or another bandage? Click Here to view your instructions.
Tips
Make sure to wash your hands before touching your tattoo! This is one of the easiest ways to avoid infection or complications in the healing process.
Your tattoo will likely be covered with saran wrap right after your tattoo. Leave this on up to 3 hours, then remove the wrap and gently clean with clean hands (no washcloths or loofahs) until your tattoo area is no longer slippery. Put on your ointment (see below) and do not wrap with saran wrap again. If you know you will be in the sun, dirt, or other damaging environments, a snug cloth to cover will help protect while still being able to breath. This can be long sleeved shirts, pants, leggings, a handkerchief, or even a clean sock with the toe cut out.
Average Healing Time: 2 Weeks
Follow these care instructions for at least 2 weeks. If your tattoo does not look sealed or healed by then, continue the procedures until it is finished healing.
Cleaning: Wash 2-3 Times a Day
Unscented, antibacterial soap is your best cleaning agent. Scented soap can cause reactions and dryness that may cause your tattoo to fade or heal incorrectly. Extra sensitive skin? Test it in a small area first, and stop at any sign of irritation.
Do not use hot water to wash your tattoo. Other than being very uncomfortable, it can aggravate your tattoo. Try to use lukewarm to cool water.
Do not scrub your tattoo. Using a washcloth, loofah, or other scrubbing agent can cause your ink to pull out, and possible scarring to occur. A gentle hand, rubbing with soap and water until it is clean, will avoid this.
Air dry or use a clean paper towel to dry. This avoids putting germs found in used towels right on your freshly clean tattoo.
Cleaning 2-3 times a day is at your discretion. If you get your tattoo dirty or feel that it needs extra cleaning, it will not hurt to clean it more. Just be sure to moisturize afterwards to avoid over drying.
Moisturizing: Apply 2-3 Times a Day
Unscented lotion, ointment, or oil applied at least after washing is crucial to your healing process. Without it, over-drying, peeling, cracking, and other unwanted damage can occur. I personally suggest an Ink Stick (available at my shop) or coconut oil to avoid any extra chemicals, however, Aquaphor, A&D Ointment, or Lubraderm in thin applications are great as well.
Gently apply ointment with clean hands. Apply when tattoo has just been cleaned, and if it is itchy, dry, or peeling for relief.
What Not To Do
Don’t touch public surfaces with your tattoo, this includes gym equipment, seats, walls, cars, ect. If you do bump an unclean surface, wash your tattoo right away.
Don’t scratch your tattoo. It will likely get very itchy in the healing process, however, scratching will damage your tattoo and your skin. Lightly tapping your skin, as well as being sure to moisturize regularly is the best way to subdue itching.
Don’t sleep on dirty sheets. Make sure your bed covers are clean, and cover your tattoos if possible. Ink can stain your sheets, and dirty sheets can get germs into your new tattoo.
Do not go into standing water, this includes pools, hot tubs, lakes, oceans, puddles. If you get splashed, wash right away.
Do not expose your tattoo to sunlight. Sunscreen should also be avoided for the first week, as it isn’t meant to be absorbed into the lower levels of your skin. Covering your tattoo is your best option until it is healed.
I, as your artist, will carry all applicable permits, licenses, and training as required by the Boulder County Health Department. If you have questions or concerns, contact Boulder County Health Department at (303) 441-1150
Fun legal outline: I DO NOT CLAIM TO BE A PHYSICIAN Call your physician at any sign of infection, such as fever, yellowish/green liquid, pus discharge, excessive swelling, or other abnormalities.