A tattoo is a healing wound as much as a piece of art. Treat it well and it will stay vivid for a lifetime.
Keep the bandage your artist applied in place for 3–5 days. It protects your fresh tattoo while it begins to heal — resist the urge to peek, pick, or peel it early. Once the time is up, gently remove it and move on to Step Two.
Once the bandage is off, wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap using clean hands — never a washcloth. Pat it dry with a clean paper towel.
Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion or tattoo balm 2–3 times a day. Less is more — never let it get gummy or over-saturated.
No direct sun, tanning, pools, lakes or soaking for 2–3 weeks. Once healed, sunscreen keeps your ink bold for years.
It will peel and itch — don't pick or scratch. Healing takes 2–4 weeks. Questions? Call the shop; we're always happy to help.
Not sure about something as you heal? Reach out any time — or read through our most common questions.
Read the FAQ