Aftercare
the best thing you can do for your tattoo is take care of you
remember to keep your tattoo clean & *lightly* moisturized
be thoughtful about maintaining adequate hydration, sleep hygiene, & nutrition
vitamin C & protein are key aides in wound healing
if you post photos featuring your new ink to the socials, feel free to tag tyler, even if it is months later. artists enjoy getting to see the how the tattoo healed up!
Tonight
gently remove bandage & wash your new tattoo with warm water & unscented soap within one to three hrs
do this by hand--avoid loofahs or anything exfoliating
pat dry with a clean towel--be mindful that ink & or blood might leak onto the fabric
rub in a thin layer of aquaphor or A&D
For the Next Five-Seven Days
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clean your tattoo as described above at least once every day plus anytime you exercise/sweat--to avoid drying out your skin, washing should be limited to a max of three times per day
rub in a thin layer of aquaphor or A&D three to four times per day (including after washes)--it can be tempting to glob it on, but your tattoo needs the thinner layer to properly breathe
Special Attention
after seven days, shower as normal but continue to avoid soaking your tattoo--this means no baths, hot tubs, or swimming. soaking draws out the ink from the tattoo & significantly increases risk for infection
rub unscented lotion into your tattoo--and whatever other skin you fancy--two to three times per day. maintain softness i.e. hydration without overdoing it
avoid sun exposure to the tattooed area as best as you can--if you plan to have prolonged sun exposure, whether or not your tattoo will be covered by clothing, apply sunscreen of SPF 50 or higher. it is best to use one with zinc oxide to also add a physical barrier on your skin, along with the chemical SPF barrier
do NOT use any triple-antibiotic ointments, e.g. neosporin, on your tattoo--these speed up the healing process too much, thus pulling the ink out of your tattoo
keep clean from sweat and pet dander--two common causes of tattoo infection
do NOT use any triple-antibiotic ointments, e.g. neosporin, on your tattoo--these speed up the healing process too much, thus pulling the ink out of your tattoo
call your medical provider or seek urgent medical attention if you notice signs of infection, which can include: excessive irritation at your tattoo site, pus, malodor, rash, fever