Tattoo After Care

Healing How-To’s & Process Info

Things to keep in mind: The healing process, on average takes roughly 2-3 weeks. It is important to maintain a clean area and moisturize accordingly to prevent scabs and itching.

Things to avoid: It is ok to shower, but avoid saunas, sun, pools, hot tubs, soaking in baths, and beaches until the tattoo is fully healed. It is important to also avoid tanning beds, oils, and direct sunlight during the healing time. Do not wear overly tight-fitting clothing, pick, or scratch while healing. 

So basically, “NO SUMMER, NO SUN, AND NO FUN…until you heal!”

Things to know: Your tattoo was applied using sterile equipment such as disposable needles and tubes. All items have been EO sterilized by the manufacturer.


Everyone’s process is different. These are general guidelines and hygiene practices recommended. Maintaining the tattoo from this point forward is the responsibility of the client. Any questions that you may have, never hesitate to email me directly!

Traditional Tattoo Aftercare:

  1. Leave protective bandaging on for up to three hours, and no more than 24 depending on the bandaging and your situation. Once you take the protective bandaging off be sure to wash with a liquid antibacterial soap (clients typically purchase Dial at a local pharmacy). DO NOT RE-BANDAGE

  2. During the first three to five days be sure to wash your tattoo 2- 3 times a day. Always wash your hands before touching the tattooed area. 

  3. Apply a very thin layer of the aftercare ointment of your choice ( A&D/ Aquafor). If it’s shiny and wet looking, you are putting on too much: there should be a light sheen when applying. Too much ointment can lead to infection.

  4.  Your skin will appear to have a shine at one point, indicating the new, healed skin. 

  5. Be sure to moisturize will a non scented lotion/ fragrance free after the initial 3-5 days. Lubriderm, Aveeno, or Curel are all recommended products.

Dynarex Tattoo Aftercare:

  1. Depending on the project, I may recommend removing the bandage roughly 24 hours after getting tattooed. Otherwise, you may wear your bandage anywhere from three to five days.

  2. Once you are ready to gently remove the bandage, make certain to peel from corners while running warm water over the bandage.  *Important: Do not rip or pull off when skin is dry. The bandage should have water running over it for 5-10 minutes before attempting to remove.

  3. Immediately after removing the bandage, use your hands and wash the area thoroughly with a fragrance-free soap (ex. Dial, Dove, Dr. Bronnners) and warm water. Rinse well to remove all soap. You may air dry or blot dry with a soft paper towel but DO NOT RUB.

    *If the bandage seal breaks, or is punctured, please remove and clean the area. Make sure to wash your new tattoo daily and apply a very thin layer of fragrance-free lotion (Aveeno, Curel, etc.)  

  4. In order to ensure the life of your tattoo, and overall health of your skin, stay hydrated, moisturize your skin, and wear sunscreen when possible.