Preparation

Leading up to your tattoo appointment:

  • Regularly moisturize the area of the tattoo to keep your skin healthy and hydrated (this allows your skin to take the ink better and makes for an easier tattoo process on our end!)

  • Stay hydrated and well-fed

  • Get a good, well-rested night of sleep

  • Limit alcohol 24hrs prior

The day of:

  • Eat a nourishing meal within 3-4 hours of the session

  • Bring snacks and water

  • Wear a comfortable outfit that is easily accessible to the area of the tattoo (tip: black or dark-colored clothing near the tattoo is best incase ink gets on your clothes)

  • Bring anything that might make the session more comfortable/enjoyable (for example; headphones, book, a clean blanket, etc.)

Aftercare

Aftercare - second-skin bandage:

  1. Leave the second skin bandage on for up to 3-5 days (you may notice a bit of blood/plasma/ink under the bandage, that's totally normal!)

  2. Take the bandage off in the shower under lukewarm running water (it will help loosen the adhesive and reduce pain)

  3. Once the bandage is off, rinse the tattoo well with water. You can wash the tattoo with an unscented gentle soap to clean off any ink/fluids

  4. Let the tattoo air dry or pat dry with a paper towel

  5. Moisturize the tattoo 2-3x/day for 1-2 weeks with a thin layer of a natural, unscented lotion (brand recommendations: Hustle Butter, cetaphil, lubriderm)

  • You can shower with the second-skin bandage on - avoid direct running water on the fresh tattoo

  • Avoid sweat collecting under the second-skin bandage, remove it early if necessary

  • The second-skin bandage may peel up a bit on the edges. If the tattoo becomes exposed, remove the bandage early

  • If you notice any skin irritation with the bandage on, remove it early and gently rinse / moisturize the area. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions/concerns

Aftercare - plastic wrap:

  1. Leave the plastic wrap on until you get home, or for up to a couple hours. Wash your hands prior to removing plastic wrap or doing any aftercare

  2. Rinse the tattoo with lukewarm water. Gently wash the tattoo with an unscented gentle soap to clean off any ink/fluids

  3. Let the tattoo air dry or pat dry with a paper towel (do not use a cloth towel as they harbor bacteria)

  4. Moisturize the tattoo 2-3x/day for 1-2 weeks with a thin layer of a natural, unscented lotion (brand recommendations: Hustle Butter, cetaphil, lubriderm)

  • During the first few days, make sure to wear clean clothes and keep the fresh tattoo away from any dirt/debris

Important info:

  • Avoid bathing, swimming, and soaking the tattoo in any body of water for at least 2-3 weeks after the appointment

  • Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 1-2 weeks, longer is better. You can start applying sunscreen once the tattoo is fully healed

  • Avoid excessive sweating or intense physical activity the first week of healing your tattoo

As always, ask me as many questions before, during, or after your appointment regarding aftercare! Afterall, a tattoo is an open wound, and proper aftercare is crucial to a well-healed tattoo. ♥