Congratulations on your fresh ink! To ensure your tattoo stays vibrant for years to come, proper aftercare is crucial. Here's a step-by-step guide to make your healing journey healthy and straightforward:

Start with Clean Hands: Always wash your hands for a full minute using warm water and unscented antibacterial soap before touching your fresh tattoo. Think of it as a tattoo-handshake with your ink.

• Rinse your tattoo with lukewarm water to remove any blood and excess ink. Some ink oozing is normal.

• Use fragrance-free, antibacterial soap to gently lather and wash your tattoo. No scrubbing. If there's stubborn skin, blood, or ink, leave it be; it will come off later.

• Pat the area dry with a fresh paper towel.

• Let your tattoo breathe until completely dry.

• Apply a thin layer of healing ointment to the entire tattoo.

Repeat the Routine: Follow this process every morning, midday, night, and whenever your tattoo feels dirty or tight throughout the day. Keeping the area clean and hydrated is crucial for the best results.

Prevent Contamination: Remember to wash your hands before applying ointment and never double-dip to avoid contamination.

The Peel Phase: Around days 3 or 4, you'll notice layers of skin and tattoo beginning to flake or peel. This is perfectly normal and ideal. Washing and cleaning will assist in the shedding process, so there's no need to intentionally peel.

Hands Off Your Tattoo: NEVER pull, peel, or scratch at your healing tattoo. Such actions can result in ink loss, which we want to avoid.

Dress Code: Wear clean, soft clothing over your tattoo for the first two weeks. Avoid anything abrasive or irritating. For foot tattoos, go barefoot whenever possible. If you must wear shoes, wrap your clean tattoo in saran wrap, then cover it with a clean cotton sock before putting on your shoe. Steer clear of sandals or flip-flops to prevent chafing and damage to the tattoo.

Sun Protection: For the first two weeks, keep your tattoo away from direct sunlight, as it can be harsh on fresh ink. After it heals on the surface, apply sunscreen (SPF 60) to protect it. A layer of spray tan over a fully healed tattoo is also a great way to safeguard your investment, especially when going on vacation.

No Swimming Until Healed: Avoid swimming until your tattoo is completely healed. We want to protect your fresh artwork.

Ongoing Aftercare: After your tattoo is healed, aftercare is a lifelong commitment. Protect your body art and skin health by consistently applying sunscreen and moisturizing daily. Staying hydrated with water and maintaining a healthy diet can also help your tattoo maintain its vibrancy.

You're now a canvas for some awesome art, so remember to take good care of it!