Taking care of a new tattoo correctly is almost as important as picking the right artist to do it. There have been plenty of amazing tattoos ruined by people who did not take care of them properly. The first thing you should do is forget anything anyone has ever told you about tattoo aftercare. Then, just follow these simple instructions and please come see us if you’re ever concerned or have questions.

​

• Leave the bandage we apply on for 1 hour or until you get home.

• When you remove the bandage, gently wash off any blood and ointment with freshly washed hands using a clean, damp paper towel. 

• Always pat dry.  DO NOT RUB! 

• When cleaning, use anti-bacterial soap and your hand only. 

• Do not use loofas, wash cloths or sponges. 

• When showering, do not let the water hit your tattoo direct. 

• DO NOT SUBMERGE your tattoo in baths, hot tubs, pools or salt water while your tattoo is healing. 

• After washing your tattoo, allow it to air dry and leave it alone. 

• The next morning or when you notice it is becoming a bit dry apply a very small amount of a white unscented lotion such as Lubriderm to the tattoo. 

• The thinner the lotion the better. 

• Use this only as needed during the healing process. 

• If clothing or bedding gets stuck to your tattoo, wet it down before attempting to remove it. 

• DO NOT pick, dig or scratch your tattoo. 

• Avoid tanning or direct sunlight while the tattoo is healing. 

• If you can’t avoid sunlight then cover your tattoo when in direct UV rays. 

• After healed apply sunblock to your tattoo to avoid fading. 

• Tight clothing, unsanitary conditions, strenuous activity and unnecessary handling may complicate and slow the healing process. 

• If you experience any problems or have any concerns regarding your tattoo, please contact us before seeking medical attention.

​

Piercing Aftercare

Practicing proper hygiene is the most important thing when taking care of a new piercing. Keep the environment around your piercing clean at all times during the healing process.

 

Cleaning Instructions

•Wash your hands before touching your jewelry and the surrounding area.

•Soak your piercing in a saline or saltwater solution for 5-10 minutes each day.

(Saltwater Solution: 1 cup of warm distilled water with 1/4 tsp non iodized fine grain sea salt)

•Soap only once a day while showering. Use a mild, fragrance free liquid soap. Rinse to remove all soap from the piercing. Dry with clean cloth or paper towel. 

 

Oral Piercings

•Get a new toothbrush.

•Rinse the inside of your mouth with mouthwash or saltwater solution approximately 4-5 times daily, primarily after meals and especially before you go to bed.

•Eliminate (or at least cut back on) sugars, smoking, and drinking alcohol.

 

The No’s

DON’T TOUCH IT!  Hands are very dirty, no matter how clean they look. The vast majority of infections come from people touching their piercings.

Do not use rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or Neosporin to clean your piercing.

No ointments, lotions, creams, hair sprays/dye, or makeup on or near piercing site.

No swimming/submerging: avoid rivers, lakes, oceans, pools, bathtubs, hot tubs, and mud puddles.

Avoid tight, restrictive clothing at pricing site.

Avoid sleeping on your piercing.

 

What To Expect

Some bleeding, swelling, and tenderness or pain are standard immediately after being pierced. You can expect slight swelling, redness, and discharge for a prolonged period of time.

Localized bruising is normal, but not typical for all piercings.

 

Possible Infection

Actual infections are rare.

Call or stop by the studio at the first sign of trouble.

DO NOT remove your jewelry.

​

* DISCLAIMER:
These guidelines are based on a combination of vast professional experience, common sense, research and extensive clinical practice. This is not to be considered a substitute for medical advice from a doctor. If you suspect an infection, seek medical attention. .