Post Session

TATTOO
AFTERCARE GUIDE

How you care for your tattoo now determines how it looks forever.

Taking care of your new tattoo is just as important as the tattoo itself. Follow this guide carefully — your skin is healing, and how you treat it in the coming days will directly affect the final result.

STEP 1 — FIRST 24 HOURS

If Using Plastic Wrap

  • Remove within 1 hour maximum.
  • Wash hands first, then rinse tattoo with clean lukewarm water.
  • Gently remove blood or plasma, pat dry with clean paper towel.
  • Let air dry for 5–10 minutes.
  • Days 2–3: rinse with bottled water 2–3 times daily, pat dry — no creams yet.

If Using Second Skin

  • Leave on for 3–5 days as directed.
  • Fluid build-up (blood, ink, plasma) under bandage is normal.
  • Do not go swimming — not waterproof for submersion.
  • Remove early if: excessive fluid pooling, worsening redness or pain, allergic reaction, or bandage lifting.

STEP 2 — DAY 3 UNTIL HEALED

  • Begin applying a very small amount of fragrance-free aftercare cream 2–3 times daily.
  • Less is more — your tattoo should never look wet or shiny.
  • Continue until completely smooth and healed.

WHAT TO AVOID

✕Swimming, soaking, or hot tubs
✕Direct sunlight on fresh tattoo
✕Soap, disinfectants, or alcohol-based products
✕Tight clothing over the area
✕Scratching or picking at scabs
✕Over-moisturizing
✕Excessive sweating or gym sessions
✕Pets or fur near the tattoo
✕Hot showers or steam

HEALING TIMELINE

Days 1–3

Fresh & Vulnerable

Keep clean and dry. Handle with care.

Days 4–7

Itching & Peeling Begins

Start aftercare cream. Do not scratch.

Week 2

Flaking Continues

May look faded — completely normal.

Weeks 3–4

Skin Appears Shiny

Tattoo begins to settle and regain vibrancy.

NORMAL SIGNS

  • ✓Light redness or warmth
  • ✓Slightly darker or lighter tones
  • ✓Minor scabbing or peeling

WARNING SIGNS

Contact us immediately if you notice:

  • !Severe redness spreading beyond tattoo area
  • !Excessive swelling worsening after 48 hours
  • !Hot skin or fever
  • !Green, yellow, or foul-smelling discharge
  • !Severe or increasing pain
  • !Red streaks extending from the tattoo
  • !Excessive blistering

QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS?

If something doesn't look or feel right, reach out immediately with a clear photo and description. We're here to help.

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