AFTERCARE

What you'll need: Mild fragrance-free soap, either Aquaphor (tube only, not the tub or applicator container) or Hustle Butter (in a little round container, you can get it on amazon), and a mild fragrance-free lotion like Eucerin or Aveeno.

The first few days

Leave your bandage on for at least 3-4 hours. Overnight is even better, especially for larger work. In the excitement of getting a new tattoo, a lot of people take it off too soon and have a rough night stuck to their sheets. Do yourself a favor and resist the urge.

When the bandage comes off, wash your tattoo with warm water and mild soap until any extra ointment, blood and ink has been washed away. Blot dry with a clean towel or paper towel and let it air dry for a bit before getting dressed.

Apply Aquaphor or Hustle Butter 1-2 times a day for the first 2-3 days, rubbed in like lotion. After that, switch to a mild fragrance-free lotion whenever it feels dry, tight or itchy. If you prefer to skip the Aquaphor and use lotion from the start, that works well too.

The goal is finding the sweet spot between too moist and too dry. Give a little extra attention to areas that bend or rub, as they can take longer to heal.

A few things to keep in mind

Wear loose, soft clothing in the first few days, especially to sleep. Choose clothes that can get stained. If your tattoo sticks to fabric, don't pull it away. Hop in the shower, wet it, and let the material separate gently.

Avoid picking, scratching, soaking in pools or hot tubs, and gym equipment or other surfaces where you could pick up bacteria. Wash your hands before touching your tattoo.

If anything looks off or you have questions, just reach out.