The Dos and Don'ts of Tattoo Aftercare

Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience, but it’s important to remember that proper aftercare is essential to ensure that your new tattoo heals properly and looks great. Here are some dos and don’ts of tattoo aftercare to keep in mind:

DO:

1. Follow your tattoo artist's aftercare instructions: Your tattoo artist will provide you with specific aftercare instructions, which may vary depending on the size and location of your tattoo. Follow their instructions carefully to ensure proper healing.

2. Keep your tattoo clean: Use a mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water to gently clean your tattoo 2-3 times a day. Avoid using abrasive or scented products that can irritate your skin.

3. Moisturize your tattoo: After cleaning your tattoo, apply a thin layer of unscented, gentle moisturizer to help soothe and protect your skin. Don't over-apply, as too much moisturizer can trap bacteria and slow down healing. We recommend using hustle butter, which is purpose built for tattoo aftercare & carried in our tattoo studio.

4. Keep your tattoo covered: While your tattoo is healing, avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or soaking it in water (such as swimming or soaking in a bath). Cover it with loose, breathable clothing to protect it from irritants and bacteria. We carry in our studio both Saniderm & DermShield by Recovery Aftercare, both do an excellent job at protecting the fresh tattoo from unnecessary exposure while giving the tattoo nutrients to aid in the healing process.

5. Eat healthy and stay hydrated: Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated can help your body heal faster and reduce the risk of infection.

DONT:

1. Don't scratch or pick at your tattoo: It's normal for your tattoo to itch or flake during the healing process, but scratching or picking at it can cause damage to the tattoo and increase the risk of infection.

2. Don't expose your tattoo to direct sunlight: Sun exposure can cause fading and damage to your tattoo, so avoid exposing it to direct sunlight until it has fully healed.

3. Don't soak your tattoo in water: Avoid swimming or soaking in a bath, hot tub, or sauna until your tattoo is fully healed. Exposure to water can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of infection.

4. Don't wear tight or abrasive clothing: Tight clothing or clothing made from rough fabrics can irritate your tattoo and slow down the healing process.

5. Don't apply ointments or creams that aren't recommended by your tattoo artist: Some products can interfere with the healing process or cause an allergic reaction, so only use products that are recommended by your tattoo artist. If you have a question regarding a certain product, ask our artists & they'd be happy to discuss it with you!

By following these dos and don’ts of tattoo aftercare, you can help ensure that your new tattoo heals properly and looks great for years to come. Remember, proper aftercare is essential to the longevity and quality of your tattoo, so take care of it as you would any other valuable investment.