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Here are your aftercare instructions.

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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)

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Repeat for 3-5 days: Continue washing gently and applying lotion or ointment for the first few days until the tattoo begins to peel.

5. 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.

6. 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

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. Continue moisturizing: Continue applying lotion 2-3 times a day for several weeks to ensure proper healing.

6. Avoid sun, swimming, and scratching: As with the first method, avoid direct sunlight, swimming, and picking at your tattoo during the healing process.​