Aftercare Instructions

Tattoo aftercare starts in the tattoo shop. Once the tattoo is done, the artist will apply a thin layer of moisturizer over the entire tattooed area. They will then cover the area completely with plastic wrap or a bandage.

As tempting as it can be to remove the protective cover to look at the tattoo, the bandage or plastic wrap should stay on for at least 3 hours after the process.

A bandage may be left on overnight if it feels comfortable and secure. If the bandage is removed on the first night, the tattoo may stick to or stain bedsheets. Maintain clean bedding throughout the healing process (about 2 weeks).

Wash: After removing the bandage, wash the tattoo immediately with hot water and soap and continue rinsing with hot water for a full 10 min. We recommend plain antibacterial Dial soap out of a pump bottle. No soap with fragrance moisture beads or scrubs. A clean paper towel should be used to dab the tattoo dry. Only use CLEAN HANDS to wash your tattoo. NO washcloths, bath towels, bath sponges or loofahs on a fresh tattoo. Continue this process daily with warm water for the following two weeks.

Moisturize: Once the tattoo is dry apply FRAGRANCE-FREE (green lid) Aveen daily moisturizing lotion. Apply a thin layer and gently rub it in. Lotion may be applied to the tattoo as it dries out; however if your skin is extremely sensitive, lotion may cause acne-like breakouts. This can be taken care of by reducing the number of lotion applications per day.

Wear loose, preferably cotton clothing over the fresh tattoo. The tattoo need not be rebandaged. Avoid clothing that will irritate or suffocate Fresh tattoo. After a few days, the tattoo will begin to form flaky scabs that will fall off on their own. DO NOT PICK OR SCRATCH AT YOUR TATTOO. Keep it moisturized and the scabs will shed eventually. It normally takes 2-4 weeks for a tattoo to completely heal.

DURING THE HEALING PROCESS…NO SUN, NO SWIMMING POOLS, NO JACUZZIS, NO OCEAN, NO SOAKING IN WATER OF ANY KIND!
AFTER YOUR TATTOO IS HEALED…USE SUNBLOCK, THIS WILL KEEP IT LOOKING LIKE NEW LONGER. If you have ANY questions about your healing, please contact one of our artists at (213)533-9928.

Boartooth Tattoo