Aftercare
Good aftercare of your tattoo can make or break the design. It is just as important as the application. Below are some guidelines to follow. As always if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out.
Things to Avoid
Swimming
Swimming can cause your fresh tattoo to become too moist and allow in unwanted bacteria. This can cause patchy healing and infections.
Tanning
Tanning only dries out your already sensitive skin and can cause additional irritation and prolong your healing process. Direct sun exposure can expose your sensitive skin to UV rays that can fade your new tattoo.
The Gym
Who needs another excuse to not go to the gym? They can have a lot of bacteria (who wipes the equipment down EVERY time?) and generally you go there to sweat. Sweat can irritate and lead to infections.
Standard Aftercare
After removing the bandage/second skin, wash with lukewarm water and unscented soap.
You can use unscented lotion, A&D ointment, or Aquaphor (or similar products) to keep your tattoo moist. A little goes a long way. You don't want it too moist or too dry.
Repeat the process daily until the tattoo is fully healed.
Mad Rabbit has a great step by step on what to expect during the full healing process here: Tattoo Aftercare (2025): Exact Day-by-Day Timeline, and Dermatologist