aftercare

*Before handling your tattoo, always wash your hands thoroughly*

Daily Tattoo Aftercare Routine

• Remove your bandage after 2-4 hours, then gently wash your tattoo.

• Using lukewarm water and antibacterial soap, such as Dial, use your fingers to gently cleanse the area, removing any ointment, blood, and plasma. Avoid using washcloths or anything abrasive.

• When drying your tattoo, use a clean, disposable paper towel. Gently pat the area dry—do not wipe or rub.

• Apply a very thin layer of ointment once the area is dry. We recommend Hustle Butter for aftercare, but if you have a tattoo aftercare routine that works for you, feel free to continue with that.

• Avoid over-applying ointments, as excessive application can hinder the healing process by suffocating the tattoo and creating an overly moist environment, which can promote bacterial growth.

• Your tattoo needs to stay hydrated while also being able to breathe.

• Always wash your tattoo with clean hands.

• Never apply new ointment over old ointment. Always cleanse the area before applying a fresh layer.

• This washing routine is recommended approximately three times a day for the first 3-4 days or until your tattoo begins to peel.

Peeling Stage

• Peeling is a normal and expected part of the healing process.

• Once your tattoo starts peeling, switch from ointment to a light, unscented lotion like Lubriderm to keep your tattoo hydrated.

• Peeling and flakiness can be uncomfortable and itchy. Resist the urge to pick or scratch the area!

• If your tattoo itches, gently slap it. If it’s peeling, apply lotion to soothe the skin.

Water and Sun Exposure

• You can shower with your new tattoo, but avoid submerging it in water, such as baths, hot tubs, lakes, oceans, or pools. Submerging the tattoo can cause serious damage and increase the risk of infection.

• It’s best to avoid submersion for AT LEAST three weeks after getting your tattoo.

• Sun exposure can quickly fade and damage a new tattoo. Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight, especially during the healing stage, and aim to avoid sun exposure completely for at least one month.

• Avoid tanning or using tanning beds while your tattoo is healing.

• If you must spend time in the sun, use a minimum of SPF 30 sunscreen to protect your tattoo from sun damage.

*Before handling your tattoo, always wash your hands thoroughly*

Initial Bandage:

• Keep the first bandage on for approximately 24 hours.

• When removing the bandage, do so in the shower to minimize discomfort.

• After removing the bandage, cleanse the tattoo area thoroughly using a non-scented antibacterial soap (we recommend Gold Dial Liquid Soap).

• Ensure that all soap, plasma, and blood buildup are fully rinsed off. The skin should no longer feel slimy.

• Gently pat the area dry with a paper towel (avoid using bath towels as they can harbor bacteria).

• Allow the tattoo to air dry for 15-20 minutes.

• Pat dry once again before proceeding.

Applying the Second Bandage:

• Peel off the paper backing to expose the adhesive side of the bandage.

• Start at the top of the tattoo, leaving about an inch of the bandage above the tattooed area. I recommend placing the center of the bandage first and smoothing it out across the skin.

• Once applied, remove the plastic backing from the bandage (you’ll see arrows indicating where to peel).

• Continue applying additional bandages underneath, with about an inch of overlap, until the entire tattoo is covered. Leave 2-3 inches of overhang at the bottom to accommodate plasma and blood.

• This second bandage should remain on for a minimum of 24 hours and no longer than 5 days.

Key Points to Remember:

• If the bandage seal breaks and plasma or blood begins to leak, remove the bandage as soon as possible and wash the area thoroughly.

• A broken seal means contaminants can enter, so it’s crucial to replace or remove the bandage in this situation.

• Do not apply ointment before placing the bandage.

• If plasma or blood begins to dry under the bandage, this indicates a broken seal, and you should remove the bandage and cleanse the area immediately.

• If you experience any irritation from the bandage, remove it and wash the area thoroughly.

• If you suspect an infection at any point, seek medical attention.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out— we are here to help.