After getting a tattoo, proper aftercare is crucial to ensure the best healing and long-term appearance of your new ink. Here are detailed aftercare instructions:

1. Leave the bandage on for a few hours: Your tattoo artist will cover the fresh tattoo with a sterile bandage or plastic wrap. Leave this on for 2-4 hours to protect the area from bacteria.

2. Wash your hands: Before touching your tattoo, make sure your hands are clean to prevent infection.

3. Gently clean the tattoo: After removing the bandage, use lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap to gently clean the tattoo. Use your fingertips or a soft cloth, but avoid scrubbing.

4. Pat dry with a clean paper towel: Do not use a regular towel, as it may harbor bacteria. Instead, use a clean paper towel to gently pat the area dry.

5. Apply a thin layer of ointment or moisturizer: Use a specialized tattoo ointment or a fragrance-free, alcohol-free moisturizer recommended by your tattoo artist. Apply a thin layer to keep the tattoo moisturized.

6. Repeat cleaning and moisturizing: Clean and moisturize the tattoo 2-3 times a day for the first few days. Continue this routine until the tattoo starts to peel and heal.

7. Avoid sun exposure: Protect your tattoo from direct sunlight during the healing process. UV rays can fade the ink and irritate the healing skin.

8. Avoid swimming: Stay out of pools, hot tubs, and natural bodies of water like lakes and rivers until your tattoo is fully healed. These environments can introduce bacteria to the tattoo.

9. Don't pick or scratch: As your tattoo heals, it will start to peel and itch. Do not pick, scratch, or peel the scabs, as this can damage the tattoo and increase the risk of infection.

10. Wear clean, loose, breathable clothing: Tight clothing can rub against your tattoo and cause irritation. Opt for loose, comfortable clothing during the healing process.

11. Stay hydrated and eat healthily: Proper hydration and a balanced diet can help your body heal more effectively, including your tattooed skin. Avoid drinking alcohol 3 days before the appointment and 5 days after.

12. Avoid excessive moisture: While keeping your tattoo moisturized is essential, avoid soaking it in water for extended periods. Quick showers are recommended during the healing process.

13. Pets or animal exposure: Do not allow pet hair or dander to touch the tattoo during the healing process. Wear clean clothes and sleep on clean sheet to ensure no irritation for pet hair or dander.

14. Be patient: Tattoo healing times vary but generally take about 2-4 weeks. Covered ups or heavy saturated tattoos can take 4 to 6 weeks to heel. Your tattoo will go through different stages, from redness and irritation to peeling, skin sensitivity and settling into the skin. It may look faded initially but will regain its vibrancy once fully healed.

15. Healing properly: If you have a strenuous or unsanitary job it is recommended to take a day or two off to allow the tattoo to seal itself.

16. Sleeping: Avoiding sleeping in a position where clothing or bedding can attach to the tattoo. If you wake up with the tattoo attached do not peel off. Get the clothing or bedding wet to peel off slowly without pulling new scabs.

If you notice any signs of infection, such as excessive redness, scarring, excessive pain, swelling, pus, or a fever, contact a healthcare professional and your tattoo artist immediately. Proper aftercare is essential for the best tattoo outcome, so follow these instructions diligently to ensure your new ink looks great for years to come.

Areas prone to friction, sweating, bruising and movement are at greater risk of scarring or infection. If you receive a tattoo in these areas it will require more attentive aftercare and prevention. Fingers, hands, wrist, ditch, armpit, elbow, collar bone, neck, chest, sternum, hips, knees front and back, ankles, feet, butt, and back.

Products to purchase before appointment:

Dial orange antibacterial soap

A&D Oontment

Lubriderm Lotion

Or purchase the La Conner handmade after set in the Soot & Bone Boutique