Aftercare

Caring for your New Tattoo:

Remove bandage in 1 hour, or when you are in a sanitary setting to care for your new tattoo
Wash hand thoroughly before touching your tattoo to avoid cross contamination.
Wash gently with mild hand soap (best if it's non-scented). Do not use any washcloths or sponges.
Pat dry with a paper towel and allow to air dry for 10-15 minutes before applying ointment.
Apply a very thin layer of aquaphor (or coconut oil as an organic substitute) and be sure to rub it completely into the skin.
Apply the ointment three times a day, only after washing the tattoo, for the first five days.
After 5 days, when the tattoo starts to scab and peel, switch to a fragrance free (non-scented) lotion such as Aveeno or Lubriderm. You may continue with coconut oil if you were going that route.
DO NOT expose your new tattoo direct sunlight or chlorinated water (i.e. pools and hot tubs)
DO NOT take prolonged showers (keep water exposure to your tattoo under ten minutes) and no baths. take care to keep your new tattoo dry.
DO NOT use Vaseline or Neosporin for the healing of your tattoo.
DO NOT pick or scratch at your new tattoo.

For the first 2-3 days the tattoo may leak clear fluid and some pigment, and may stain clothing or bedsheets. Be aware of this as to protect your belongings.
Be sure to wear loose clothing over your new tattoo. Excess rubbing can cause your tattoo to heal poorly and makes for a higher chance of infection.
Medically, you new tattoo is similar to a burn, keep it as clean and sanitary as possible.
If at any time your new tattoo is exceptionally red, inflamed, warm to the touch, or develops a rash, please discontinue the use of your ointment and return to the tattoo studio to consult with your artist.
During the healing process, your tattoo will peel and itch like a sunburn. The extra layer of peeling skin may make the tattoo look dull but don't worry, it will look better than ever when the messy healing process is over.