T A T T O O I N F O R M A T I O N
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Tattoo Aftercare
Heal it well. Wear it for life.
Proper aftercare is key to helping your tattoo heal cleanly and stay looking it’s best for years to come. Follow these guidelines and treat your new tattoo with care.
1. WASH & TREAT
After removing the bandage, gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild liquid antibacterial or antimicrobial soap. Use only your clean hand. Do not use a washcloth or anything abrasive. Gently remove any ointment, blood, or plasma, then pat the area completely dry with a paper towel. Apply only a very light layer of unscented water-based lotion. We recommend Lubriderm, Aveeno, or Eucerin. Do not use Neosporin, A&D ointment, or Vaseline.
2. SHOWERING & BATHING
You can and should shower with a new tattoo. It is fine to get the tattoo wet, but do not soak or submerge your tattoo. Avoid baths and hot tubs for 2-3 weeks. Showering is fine as long as you do not Saturate the tattoo.
3. SWIMMING
Do not swim in pools, fresh water bodies of water or salt water for at least two weeks while your tattoo is still healing.
4. SCABBING & PEELING
After a few days, some peeling and a small amount of scabbing is normal. The tattoo may also itch as it heals. Do not pick or scratch it. If peeling occurs, use unscented lotion. If scabbing occurs, leave it alone and let it heal naturally.
5. WHAT TO AVOID
• Do not rub the tattoo dry.
• Do not use abrasive materials.
• Do not pick or scratch the area.
• Do not soak the tattoo.
• Do not use Neosporin, A&D ointment, or Vaseline.
6. QUESTIONS?
If you have any questions at all, call or email the shop. There are no stupid questions. If you were planning on asking your friends, please ask us first.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Most tattoos heal on the surface within two to four weeks, although deeper layers of skin continue healing for several weeks afterward. Healing time varies depending on the size of the tattoo, its placement, your overall health, and how closely you follow aftercare instructions. During the healing process, it's normal to experience mild redness, dryness, flaking, and itching. If you have concerns about your tattoo, contact your artist for guidance.
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After removing your bandage according to your artist's instructions, gently wash your tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap. Most people should clean their tattoo two to three times a day during the first several days of healing, always using clean hands and gently patting the area dry with a clean paper towel before applying a light layer of moisturizer.
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Once your tattoo has been gently cleaned and completely dried, apply a thin layer of the moisturizer recommended by your artist. A small amount is all that's needed. Your tattoo should feel hydrated, not coated. Reapply as needed to prevent excessive dryness throughout the healing process.
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No. Avoid swimming pools, lakes, rivers, hot tubs, and prolonged soaking until your tattoo has completely healed. Submerging a healing tattoo can increase the risk of irritation, infection, and premature fading.
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Yes. Mild flaking, peeling, and itching are a normal part of the healing process. Avoid scratching or picking at peeling skin, as doing so may affect the appearance of the healed tattoo. Keeping the area clean and lightly moisturized can help reduce discomfort while your skin heals naturally.
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If you notice unusual redness that continues to spread, significant swelling, persistent pain, unusual discharge, or have any concerns about the way your tattoo is healing, contact Bell Rose Tattoo. We're always happy to answer questions and help you determine whether what you're experiencing is a normal part of healing or something that should be evaluated further.