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Here are your aftercare instructions.
Taking care of your tattoo properly is essential to ensure it heals well and looks great for years to come. Here are two basic aftercare methods you can follow: using fragrance-free lotion or ointment, and the second skin covering method.
Method 1: Fragrance-Free Lotion or Ointment (Ikonic or Aquaphor)
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Leave the bandage on: After getting your tattoo, your artist will bandage the area. Leave this on for 2-7 hours to protect it from bacteria.
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Wash the tattoo gently: After removing the bandage, gently wash your tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, unscented soap (like Dove or Dr. Bronner’s). Pat dry with a clean, soft towel—don’t rub.
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Apply a thin layer of ointment: Use an unscented ointment like Aquaphor or a fragrance-free lotion. Apply a thin layer 2-3 times a day to keep the skin moisturized, but avoid over-application, which can clog pores.
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Repeat for 3-5 days: Continue washing gently and applying lotion or ointment for the first few days until the tattoo begins to peel.
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Switch to lotion: After the initial peeling phase (around day 4-5), switch to a fragrance-free lotion like Cetaphil or Lubriderm to keep the area moisturized. Continue applying it 2-3 times a day for a few weeks.
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Avoid sun, swimming, and scratching: Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight, avoid swimming or soaking it in water, and resist the urge to scratch as it heals.
Method 2: Second Skin Covering
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Remove the first second skin after one day: After your tattoo, you’ll apply a second skin or medical-grade adhesive covering. Leave the first layer on for 24 hours, then gently remove it in a warm shower.
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Apply a new second skin for 3-5 days: After removing the first one, reapply a fresh second skin and leave it on for 3-5 days. This protects your tattoo while allowing it to heal with minimal maintenance.
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Remove the second skin carefully: After 3-5 days, gently peel off the second skin in a warm shower, letting the water loosen the adhesive.
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Wash and moisturize: After removing the second skin, wash your tattoo gently with unscented soap and pat dry. Once dry, apply a fragrance-free lotion like Cetaphil or Lubriderm to keep the area hydrated.
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Continue moisturizing: Continue applying lotion 2-3 times a day for several weeks to ensure proper healing.
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Avoid sun, swimming, and scratching: As with the first method, avoid direct sunlight, swimming, and picking at your tattoo during the healing process.