Tattoo Aftercare

If your tattoo is wrapped using the traditional “meat pad” method, keep your bandage on for a minimum of 2 hours, up to 8. This will allow the tattoo to naturally expel excess “juices” and begin the healing process.

If using second skin, leave the bandage on for 3-5 days, and slowly remove it in the shower peeling it up/away from the tattoo and very slowly. If the bandage begins to expose your tattoo or gets excessively juicy, you can remove it early - just begin the following aftercare:

Wash your tattoo with dye/fragrance free soap & warm water, 1-2x a day. We like Dr. Bronner’s Baby Soap or Dial Antibacterial Hand Soap.

Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Please don’t use your bathroom cotton towels as they can harbor bacteria.

Use unscented lotion sparingly, 2-3x a day until flaking (which is normal) is gone. We like Tattoo Goo, Aveeno, Lubriderm, Eucerin, and other non-petroleum based lotions. If you choose to use Aquaphor, make sure to use it very sparingly and do not leave a large amount on your skin which will prevent breathing.

No baths, pools, rivers, oceans, etc. for a minimum of 2-3 weeks. (but PLEASE take a shower, stinky!)

No picking, scratching, direct sun light, or shaving while healing.

Admire how hot you look.

Email us at bigtoptattoospdx@gmail.com with any questions!