You must try to keep your bandage on the tattoo overnight (about 8 hours after completion of the procedure). 

If you have a simple moisture barrier using clear wrap and ointment, remove it in the morning and immediately begin proper aftercare. 

If a TEGADERM dressing was applied to your tattoo, you may keep this bandage on for up to 4 days if it stays sealed over the tattoo. In the event that the bandage peals up to expose any part of your tattoo, water/liquid get beneath the bandage, or you skin shows any sign of irritation or reaction to the bandage, REMOVE IT and immediately begin proper aftercare.

WASH YOUR HANDS with an antibacterial soap prior to touching your tattoo.

WASH YOUR TATTOO gently with warm water and an unscented antibacterial soap. Clean your tattoo using your hand. Move in a soft circular motion and DO NOT use washcloths or sponges to avoid any debris getting into your tattoo. Rinse with cool water and air dry. If needed, lightly dab the area with a clean paper towel. Wash your tattoo 2-3 times per day.

APPLY AN OINTMENT for the first 3-5 days. Use just enough product to leave a thin even layer over the tattoo. It should not be too thick or greasy. Try to apply about 6 times per day.

SWITCH TO LOTION for the next 2-3 weeks. You want to use a light, fragrance-free lotion about 6 times per day. You should not use so much lotion that you get a milky haze over your tattoo. If you apply to little or infrequently, your tattoo will feel leathery and potentially scab or crack. 

AFTER 3 WEEKS, it is still recommended to use lotion as often as your complexion requires to keep your tattoo vibrant and moisturized. You should wear sunscreen to protect your pigments from damage and extend the life of your tattoo.

DO NOT PICK OR SCRATCH!

Do not submerge your tattoo in a bathtub, hot tub, pool, or other body of water for at least 2 weeks.

Avoid tight clothing such as elastics, nylons, or pantyhose. Sweaters and sportswear are also designed to wick away moisture, so attempt to keep minimal contact with your tattoo. 

Try to keep pet hair, dander, and saliva out of your healing tattoo.

Ointments such as Aquaphor, A&D, or your favorite tattoo aftercare. (i.e. Afterinked, H2Ocean, Tattoo Goo) Do not use Vaseline, Bactine, or other astringents while healing. 

Antibacterial hand soap such as Dial, Softsoap, or any fragrance free liquid hand soap. Do not use body wash, and avoid contact with shampoos and conditioners.

Unscented lotions such as Lubriderm, Aveeno, Cure’l. Avoid body butters and essential oils. Coconut oil or Vitamin E oil are popular substitutes for lotion, but these much be used in smaller amounts and twice as frequently. 

Scabbing and Cracking: this can affect the overall integrity of your tattoo. Make sure you are applying a moisturizer frequently. If you need an extra boost in healing, try a thin layer of antibiotic ointment such as Bacitracin, Triple-Antibiotic, or Neosporin 2-3 times daily for 3 days and a warm washcloth compress for 20 minutes in the evenings.

Rash, Bumps, or Stinging/Itching: Stop all products you are currently using, and use a cool to warm compress 3–4 times per day for 10 minutes. Keep the area clean and use an antibiotic ointment to avoid infection.

Infection: If you notice any signs of infection (i.e. extreme irritation, fluid build up, etc.),  inform your artist and consult a physician immediately.

If any on these conditions continue, inform your artist or the Studio.