Caring for your new tattoo...

• Make sure your hands are clean before touching your tattoo. The bandage can be removed after a minimum of 4 hours, and no more than 24 hours after the initial bandaging of your new tattoo. I highly recommend waiting until you get up tomorrow to remove the bandage as this will protect your new tattoo while you sleep tonight.
• Wash your tattoo with warm water and a mild antibacterial soap and gently pat dry with a clean towel and allow to air dry for 2 to 3 minutes. When your tattoo is dry, apply a very thin layer of Aquaphor or Vitamin A&D Ointment to your tattoo, making sure to wipe off any excess. Do not re-bandage.
• Repeat this process every 3 hours during the first 3 days. On the fourth day wash your tattoo when you get up and allow to air dry throughout the day.
• Starting on the fifth day, apply a thin layer of moisturizing lotion 2 to 3 times daily for the next 2 to 3 weeks. A good fragrance free lotion such as Curel or Vaseline Intensive Care or Lubriderm is preferred.
• The normal healing time is 2 to 4 weeks.
• Do not soak your tattoo during healing. That means no baths, hot tubs, pools, etc. Showers are fine, just remember washing is good, soaking is bad.
• Do NOT pick or scratch at your tattoo, if you scratch off a scab, you will most likely loose the ink. Flaking or peeling is a natural part of the healing process, and should be allowed to happen at it’s own pace.
• Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight during healing. After your tattoo is healed, always use a good waterproof sun block while in the sun, preferably 30 to 45 SPF.