Congratulations on your new tattoo! Proper aftercare is crucial to ensure the best healing and longevity of your tattoo. Please follow these instructions carefully to promote healing and minimize the risk of complications:

1. Leave the Bandage On:

• Your tattoo artist will cover your tattoo with a bandage or plastic wrap immediately after the tattooing process. Leave this covering on for at least 2-4 hours to protect the tattoo from bacteria and airborne contaminants.

2. Wash Your Hands:

• Before touching your tattoo, wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap and warm water.

3. Clean Your Tattoo:

• After removing the bandage, gently wash your tattoo with mild antibacterial soap and warm water. Use your fingertips to gently remove any blood, plasma, or excess ink.

• Rinse the tattoo thoroughly with lukewarm water to ensure all soap residue is removed.

4. Pat Dry:

• Gently pat your tattoo dry with a clean, soft towel. Do not rub or scrub the tattoo, as this can irritate the skin and disrupt the healing process.

5. Apply an Antimicrobial Ointment:

• After drying your tattoo, apply a thin layer of an antimicrobial ointment recommended by your tattoo artist. Avoid using petroleum-based products or thick layers of ointment, as these can clog pores and hinder the healing process.

6. Keep it Clean and Moisturized:

• Wash your tattoo 2-3 times daily with mild antibacterial soap and warm water. Pat it dry gently and reapply a thin layer of antimicrobial ointment after each wash.

• Avoid exposing your tattoo to direct sunlight, swimming pools, hot tubs, or soaking in water for at least 2 weeks.

• Wear loose, breathable clothing to prevent friction and irritation to the tattooed area.

7. Avoid Picking or Scratching:

• Do not pick, scratch, or peel the scabs that form over your tattoo as it heals. This can lead to scarring, loss of color, and infection.

8. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well:

• Drink plenty of water and maintain a healthy diet to support the healing process from within.

9. Monitor for Signs of Infection:

• Keep an eye out for signs of infection, such as excessive redness, swelling, pus, or warmth around the tattooed area. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional immediately.

10. Follow-Up Appointment:

• Schedule a follow-up appointment with your tattoo artist for any necessary touch-ups or to ensure proper healing.

Additional Restrictions on Physical Activities:

• Bathing/Showering: Avoid soaking your tattoo in water, including baths, swimming, or prolonged showers, for at least 2 weeks.

• Recreational Water Activities: Refrain from swimming in pools, hot tubs, oceans, lakes, or other bodies of water for at least 2 weeks.

• Gardening and Outdoor Activities: Minimize exposure to dirt, dust, and outdoor elements during the initial healing period for at least 2 weeks.

• Contact with Animals: Avoid direct contact with pets or animals, especially if they have access to outdoor areas for at least 2 weeks.

 

Signs and Symptoms of Infection:

While it's normal for your tattoo to experience some mild discomfort and irritation during the healing process, it's important to be aware of signs and symptoms that may indicate an infection. These include:

• Increased Redness:

  • While some redness is expected around the tattoo site, if you notice a significant increase in redness spreading beyond the tattooed area or if the redness becomes more intense over time, it could be a sign of infection.

• Swelling and Tenderness:

  • Mild swelling and tenderness are common after getting a tattoo. However, if the swelling worsens or is accompanied by extreme tenderness, pain, or throbbing sensations, it may indicate an infection.

• Red Streaks:

  • Red streaks extending from the tattoo site towards the heart can be a serious sign of infection, particularly if they are accompanied by warmth, tenderness, or swelling along the streaks. This may indicate the spread of infection through the bloodstream and requires immediate medical attention.

• Elevated Body Temperature:

  • A mild increase in body temperature is normal after getting a tattoo, but if you develop a fever (a body temperature of 100.4°F or higher), it could be a sign of infection. Monitor your temperature regularly, especially if you experience other symptoms of infection.

• Purulent Drainage:

  • While some clear or slightly tinted fluid is normal during the initial stages of healing, the presence of pus or thick, yellowish drainage from the tattooed area may indicate an infection. Pus is a sign that your body is fighting off bacteria, and it requires medical attention.

Signs and Symptoms that Indicate the Need for Medical Care:

If you experience any of the following signs or symptoms, it's essential to seek medical care promptly:

• Increasing pain, redness, swelling, or warmth around the tattoo site.

• Red streaks extending from the tattoo site towards the heart.

• Pus or thick, yellowish drainage from the tattooed area.

• Fever (a body temperature of 100.4°F or higher).

• Persistent or worsening symptoms despite following proper aftercare instructions.

Seeking Medical Care:

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms of infection or if you have concerns about the healing process, don't hesitate to seek medical care. Prompt treatment can help prevent complications and promote proper healing of your tattoo. Contact your healthcare provider or visit an urgent care center if you suspect an infection or if you're unsure about the severity of your symptoms.

Remember, early intervention is key to preventing complications and ensuring the best outcome for your new tattoo. Your health and well-being are our top priorities, so please don't hesitate to seek medical attention if you have any concerns.