1. Remove the bandage in a clean bathroom after 2-3 hours. The bandage may be left on overnight (or up to 3 days for aftercare bandages) if it feels comfortable and secure. If the bandage is removed on the first night, the tattoo may stick to or stain bed sheets. Maintain clean bedding throughout the healing process (about 2 weeks).

2. After removing the bandage, wash the tattoo immediately with warm water and antibacterial soap. We recommend plain Dial soap from a pump bottle. Avoid soap with fragrance, moisture beads, or scrubs.

       Process for Washing a Fresh Tattoo:

1. Carefully remove the bandage and tape. Make a lather in your hand with antibacterial soap and warm water. Gently clean the tattoo using a circular motion until all ointment, blood, and lymphatic fluid are removed. Rinse the tattoo and wash once again gently until the skin is clean. A clean paper towel may be used to dab the tattoo dry.

2. Only use clean hands to wash your tattoo. Do not use washcloths, bath towels, bath sponges, or loofahs on a fresh tattoo.

3. Once the tattoo is dry, apply AQUAPHOR, or A&D healing ointment. Apply a thin layer and rub it in. Use the ointment for the first 2-7 days, then switch to a regular fragrance-free lotion such as Lubriderm, or any other fragrance-free brand.

4. Fresh tattoos sometimes “weep” during the first couple of days, meaning that plasma and ink form a thin moist coating on the skin. This can be dabbed with a clean paper towel. Press the paper towel to the skin and remove. Do not wipe the tattoo or be rough with it. Do not be alarmed when you see the colors of the tattoo on the paper towel or on your hands as you clean it. This is simply excess ink being removed from the surface of the skin.

5. Two to three times a day is usually sufficient for cleaning any new tattoo. Consult your artist if you plan to engage in any strenuous activity within the first ten days of having your tattoo. Lotion can be applied once or twice a day as the tattoo dries and peels; however, if your skin is extremely sensitive, the lotion may cause acne-like breakouts. This can be addressed by reducing the number of lotion applications per day.

6. Wear loose, preferably cotton, clothing over the fresh tattoo. The tattoo doesn’t need to be re-bandaged except in certain instances. Clothing elements like bra straps, tight waistbands, sweaty gym shoes, or itchy cotton sweaters can potentially cause healing problems. Consult your tattoo artist for advice on what clothing to wear or avoid. If you choose to re-bandage your tattoo after washing, ensure that only sterile bandages are used.

7. After a few days, the tattoo will start to form flaky scabs that will fall off naturally. DO NOT PICK OR SCRATCH YOUR TATTOO. Keep it moisturized, and the scabs will come off eventually. Note that they will be the color of the tattoo. Typically, it takes 2-4 weeks for a tattoo to heal completely. If you have any questions about your healing, please contact our manager at (832)985-9999. Do not consult your friends about healing issues, as everyone’s experience is unique. If you notice the first sign of infection or an allergic reaction, consult a health care practitioner immediately and report any diagnosed infection, allergic reaction, or adverse reaction from the tattoo artist

Interested in more fresh tattoo designs?

Give Us a Call or fill out our survey to book a free consultation. We will contact you with the estimated price and how many sessions you will need to complete your request.

Shop representatives are available for Walk-Ins or phone calls at (832)-985-9999,  Sunday – Monday 2pm-9pm (CST).