Aftercare Instructions
How you care for your tattoo or piercing in the first weeks makes all the difference. Follow these guidelines for the best results.
Tattoo Aftercare
Keep it covered
Leave the bandage or wrap on for 2–4 hours after your session. If your artist used a second-skin film, keep it on for 3–5 days.
Wash gently
Remove the bandage and wash with lukewarm water and unscented antibacterial soap. Pat dry with a clean paper towel — never rub.
Moisturize
Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion (Lubriderm, Aveeno, or Aquaphor sparingly) 2–3 times a day. A little goes a long way.
Let it peel
Flaking and peeling is normal. Do not pick or scratch — you'll pull out ink and risk scarring. Let it shed on its own.
Avoid sun & water
No direct sunlight, tanning beds, pools, hot tubs, or soaking baths for at least 2–3 weeks. Showers are fine.
Protect long-term
Once healed, apply SPF 30+ sunscreen whenever the tattoo is exposed to sun. UV fades ink faster than anything else.
If you notice excessive redness, swelling, pus, or fever, contact a medical professional — these may be signs of infection.
Piercing Aftercare
Saline rinse
Spray sterile saline solution (0.9% sodium chloride) on the piercing 2–3 times a day. Do not use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or Bactine.
Hands off
Only touch your piercing when cleaning it, and always wash your hands first. Rotating or twisting jewelry is a myth — it causes irritation.
Keep it dry
Pat dry after cleaning with a clean paper towel. Moisture trapped around the piercing can lead to irritation bumps.
Watch what touches it
Avoid hair products, makeup, and perfume near the piercing. Change pillowcases frequently for ear and facial piercings.
No swimming
Stay out of pools, hot tubs, lakes, and the ocean until fully healed. These harbor bacteria that can cause serious infections.
Be patient
Healing times vary: lobes 6–8 weeks, cartilage 6–12 months, navel 6–12 months. Don't change jewelry until fully healed.
Signs of infection include increasing pain, swelling, warmth, green or yellow discharge, or fever. See a doctor if these occur — do not remove the jewelry, as this can trap the infection.
Questions about your healing?
Stop by the shop or give us a call — we're always happy to take a look and give advice.
(862) 218-2051Happy with your new ink or piercing?
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