Aftercare can be incredibly simple, once you learn how to do it properly.

Please reference this guide as needed. 

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After your tattoo session, remove the bandage 3-4 hours after it was wrapped. If the session ended late you can opt to wear it over night or wash and rewrap it before bed. For washing I recommend a fragrance free, antibacterial, liquid cleanser (Softsoap original or liquid Dial gold are good options, these can both be found in the handsoap section). use soaps in liquid form as bar soaps will hold bacteria. Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo, then with your fingertips gently wash your tattoo and rinse it under warmish water. Your tattoo will be temperature sensitive, like a fresh sunburn, so too hot of water will hurt! Only wash your tattoo twice a day; in the morning when you shower, before bed or after work/any activity that leaves you sweaty/dirty. 

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After it is washed you can let it air-dry or gently dab it with a clean paper towel. Don't use household wash cloths or towels to dry it as they will likely carry bacteria. I personally prefer a dry heal for the first 3-5 days, which means that I don't put any ointments, balms or lotions on it during that time but let the tattoo completely dry out. However if you choose to use ointment it is crucial that you are only using a very very very thin amount to allow your tattoo to breathe and heal properly. Only apply it once between washes, less is more in this case, overuse of any ointments can cause complications with healing and can potentially damage your tattoo. Ointments that I recommend are Hustle Butter, Tattoo Goo, or just a little bit of Aquaphore. If any of these ointments are causing irritation cease the use of it and either try a different one or let it dry heal. 

Only use ointment for the first 3-5 days or until you start noticing that the tattoo is getting flaky and starting to peel. At this point switch to an UNSCENTED, dye free lotion, any brand is fine as long as it doesn't burn or irritate your tattoo. With clean hands you can apply as much lotion as needed throughout the day. Once your tattoo starts to peel apply soap and lotion using a dabbing motion. 

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Depending on the saturation of ink, your tattoo could take up to 2 weeks to heal. During this time it is important that you avoid direct sunlight, bathing, hot tubs, swimming pools, lakes, rivers or salt water. Showering is great (I absolutely recommend showering daily) but do not submerge your tattoo in any body of water.

Avoid pet/animal saliva and dander at all cost! If your pet sleeps on your bed or furniture keep them off while healing your tattoo. Use fresh, clean bedding and don't wear clothing covered in pet hair. Make sure your living environment is clean to ensure the best heal possible.

While sleeping you can opt to wrap your tattoo with plastic wrap with a little bit of ointment. Remove the wrap first thing in the morning and wash your tattoo well. Only do this for the first 3 nights. 

Wear soft, clean, loose fitting clothing, cotton material is best, don't wear harsh or irritating materials.  Your tattoo will get itchy, don't scratch it or pick at it, just leave it alone and allow it to heal on its own.

Avoid excessive sweating during the first week of healing, sweat can burn and irritate your tattoo, and avoid direct contact with gym equipment or objects in any shared environment. 

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