Tattoo Aftercare

Traditional Soak Pad Bandage Aftercare

This method uses a standard absorbent bandage (like gauze and medical tape) placed over the tattoo immediately after the session.

First 24 Hours

• Leave the bandage on for 2–6 hours after your tattoo is finished. Artist might instruct for a more specific time based on your tattoo's size and placement.
• Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your tattoo.
• Remove the bandage carefully. If it sticks, gently wet it with lukewarm water to loosen.
• Wash the tattoo gently with warm water and a mild, unscented antibacterial soap. Use your clean fingertips (not a washcloth).
• Pat dry with a clean paper towel or let air dry. Do not rub.
• Apply a thin layer of ointment (like Aquaphor or a tattoo-specific balm). Do not over-apply.

Days 2–4

• Wash 2–3 times per day with mild soap and water.
• After washing and drying, apply a light layer of fragrance-free ointment.

Days 5–14

• Tattoo may start to flake and itch. Do not scratch or pick at it.
• You can switch to a fragrance-free lotion (like Lubriderm, Aveeno, or Eucerin).
• Continue washing gently 1–2 times a day.
• Avoid soaking the tattoo, submerged in baths, pools, hot tubs, or long showers.

Days 15–30

• Continue using fragrance-free lotion daily to keep skin hydrated.
• Protect from sun; no direct sunlight or tanning.
• Tattoo should be mostly healed by end of week 3–4. Touch-ups can be scheduled if needed.

Adhesive Bandage Aftercare

These are breathable, waterproof, adhesive wraps applied right after your tattoo. They seal healing fluids and protect the area for several days.

First 24–72 Hours (While Film Is On)

• Do not remove the bandage unless you experience irritation, excessive fluid buildup, or it peels earlier than expected.
• It's normal to see plasma and ink building under the bandage, this means it’s working.
• You can shower with the film on, however, avoid long exposure to steam or heat.
• If the bandage begins to peel or leak early, consult with the tattoo artist.

Removing the Bandage

• Remove it between day 3 and day 7, depending on your artist's instructions.
• Gently peel off bandage in a warm shower.
• Wash the tattoo gently with lukewarm water and mild soap after removing the bandage.

After Bandage Removal (Days 3–7)

• Gently wash and pat dry twice a day.
• Apply a light layer of fragrance, free lotion afterward. Can use aquaphor interchangeably for optimal moisture. 
  
• Some peeling and light scabbing may occur. Do not pick or scratch at your skin. 

Days 15–30

• Moisturize daily with fragrance-free lotion.
• Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, and swimming.
• Tattoo should be fully healed by week 3–4.