Tattoo Aftercare: Care Directions
Bandage(*) should stay on for at least two hours.
After removing the bandage, wash your tattoo with warm water and soap don’t rub it dry, just pat it with a towel.
Use a warm water compress with paper towel to check if your tattoo has stopped oozing up to (6-10 hrs. after removing the bandage).
Wash hands. Apply a small amount of non-petroleum based moisturizer in palm of hand. Use your fingertips and gently apply it to your tattoo 3-5 times daily.
Keep tattoo fresh and open to the air. Do not bandage.
For the first two weeks, avoid swimming or long soaking in the water.
For the first month, avoid any exposure to the sun.
Do not pick or scratch scabs.
Keep tattoo covered with loose clothing.
Before bed apply water based moisturizer to ensure moisture for the duration of the night and apply again when you wake up.
Wash your tattoo once a day when taking a shower. Do not allow direct contact with the high pressure water from the shower head.
Failure to follow the care directions properly can extend the healing time or prevent your tattoo from looking it’s best.
It is most unusual for a tattoo not to heal quickly as hygiene methods follow recommended procedures. Should yours not be healing to your entire satisfaction consult your doctor immediately.
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I read your after-care section, but when you dry your tatoo, don’t rub it, just pat it with a towel.
Comment by Jessika — May 16, 2007 @ 2:18 pm