WEEK 1: The Initial Care

• Remove the Bandage
  Remove your bandage or film (like Saniderm) 6–12 hours after your appointment, or after 1–4 days if using Saniderm.

• Clean Gently
  Wash your tattoo with lukewarm water and non-scented antibacterial soap using your hands (avoid scrubs or exfoliators).

• Dry the Tattoo
  Air dry or pat the area dry with a clean towel.

• Apply Healing Ointment
  Use a very thin layer of healing ointment (Recommendations below).

 

WEEK 2: Stay Consistent

• No Scratching or Picking
  Do NOT pick at or scratch scabs, as this can damage the tattoo and affect the ink.

• Moisturize Regularly
  Keep the tattoo hydrated with your recommended lotion.

• Tap the Itch
  If the tattoo itches, gently tap or pat it instead of scratching.

 

WEEK 3–4: Final Stretch
By Week 3, the outer surface may appear healed, but the deeper layers of the skin may still be recovering.

Continue care from Week 2.​

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      Recommended        
Products

• Non-Scented, Antibacterial Soap:

  • Gold Dial Soap

  • Cetaphil Antibacterial Soap

• Healing Ointments:

  • Aquaphor

  • CeraVe Healing Ointment

  • A+D Ointment

• Fragrance-Free Lotions:

  • Curel

  • Lubriderm

  • Aveeno (Nourishes Dry Skin)

  • CeraVe

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    What to Avoid During Healing

• Direct Sunlight
  Stay out of the sun to prevent fading and irritation.

• Dirty Environments
  Avoid exposure to unclean or unsanitary areas.

• Unhygienic Bodies of Water
  Stay away from pools, baths, oceans, and any bodies of water that may contain bacteria.

• Heavy Sweating
  Avoid intense workouts that cause excessive sweating and friction on the tattoo.

• Scratching or Picking
  Let the scabs naturally fall off to avoid scarring.

• Use of Loofahs or Washcloths
  Only use your hands to clean the tattoo; avoid scrubbing with washcloths or loofahs.

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  Signs of Infection

Watch for signs of infection, which may include:

• Redness, swelling, or tenderness at the tattoo site

• Red streaks extending from the tattoo area

• Elevated body temperature (fever)

• Pus or abnormal drainage coming from the tattoo

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional immediately.