Aftercare

Taking care of your new tattoo is essential to proper healing and preserving the artwork. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about bandaging, aftercare, and keeping your tattoo looking its best.


Bandages

Your artist will apply one of two types of bandages after your tattoo. Both are designed to protect your fresh piece—remember, your tattoo is an open wound and needs proper care to heal well.

  1. Biofilm Bandage (Recovery Brand):
    This clear, breathable film should be worn for 24 hours. It’s normal to see fluid collect under the bandage—don’t worry unless it begins to leak, in which case remove it early. While it’s on, no other care is needed. To remove it, take a warm shower and gently peel it off. After removal, begin regular aftercare.

  2. Dry Lock Pad Bandage:
    This absorbent pad is meant to be worn until you’re home and able to wash the tattoo properly. Once removed, begin regular aftercare.


Aftercare

Clean your tattoo 2 to 4 times a day using a fragrance-free soap, then apply a fragrance-free lotion in a thin layer—just enough to make the skin slightly shiny. If your tattoo feels itchy, it’s okay to use a bit more moisturizer, but never scratch or pick at your tattoo.

In the second week, you may experience some peeling. This is normal—don’t pull at any flakes or scabs. Let them fall off naturally.

After washing, air dry your tattoo when possible, or gently pat it dry with a clean paper towel. Avoid bath towels, which can carry bacteria.

For the first two weeks, avoid soaking, swimming, hot tubs, and bubble baths. Showers and running water are fine—just don’t let your tattoo sit submerged.

Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight during this time. If you’ll be outside or getting dirty, wear loose-fitting clothing over the area. Once your tattoo is fully healed, use sunscreen to protect it—after all, you’ve got expensive skin now.

If you have any questions during healing, reach out to us. Don’t trust TikTok—ask us first. We’re here for you.


Complications

An infected tattoo can be serious. Watch for signs like pain, swelling, redness, or warmth around the area. Other symptoms may include red streaks, pus, fever, or swollen/tender lymph nodes.

If you notice any of these symptoms—or if something just doesn’t feel right—contact your doctor, visit urgent care, or go to the er. It’s better to be safe. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics and provide guidance for proper healing.