Healing well is just as important as the tattoo itself. Here's how to take care of your new piece.
After your appointment, leave the original bandage on for the amount of time your artist recommends (typically 3–4 days). When it's time to remove it, do so in the shower, gently pulling it off in the direction of hair growth to avoid irritation.
Once removed, wash the area with a mild, unscented soap and warm water, then pat it dry with a clean paper towel. Avoid cloth towels, which can harbor bacteria.
From there, keep the tattoo lightly moisturized with an unscented lotion throughout the healing process. This helps minimize peeling and keeps colors and linework looking their best.
A few things to avoid: don't pick at scabs or peeling skin, and don't re-bandage your tattoo for longer than 5 days. Your skin needs to breathe to heal properly.
If you notice unusual redness, swelling, or signs of an allergic reaction, discontinue use of any aftercare product immediately and consult a physician. For any questions during healing, feel free to reach out to the studio directly.