Tattoo Aftercare Info

Bold. Timeless. Intentional.

The process of making sure your tattoo looks as good as possible is in your hands just as much as mine. Following proper aftercare steps below will ensure your tattoo heals and looks amazing for years to come. 

The Aftercare Process

The aftercare of your tattoo is the most important part of the tattoo process. It is what determines how well your tattoo looks as it ages along with your body.
Aftercare can be a tricky process that is why I like to use Derm Shield, a latex free transparent adhesive bandage on my tattoos with instructions to leave on for 3 days. A tattoo is an open wound and a layer of Derm Shield keeps it protected from the outside dirt and bacteria and leaves plasma on your tattoo which is what your body uses to heal wounds.

However not all cases call for a Derm Shield layer. Skin conditions, allergies, and tattoo placement can make it more difficult to place. In these situations I recommend using one pump of Dial unscented liquid antibacterial soap and water to wash the tattoo and pat dry with a paper towel 3 times a day, followed by a thin layer of aquaphor for the first 3 days and then a layer of lubriderm as needed.

Following these steps will ensure the life of your tattoo and keep it looking amazing as it ages.

Aftercare & Longevity

Proper aftercare is crucial for bold black tattoos.

You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions to ensure:

  • Strong, even healing
  • Long-lasting saturation
  • Minimal fading
  • Clean line retention

Blackwork tattoos can look incredible for decades when applied and healed correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have any questions? I got you covered here are some of my most frequently asked

How long will I need to sit?

The length of the session will depend on the tattoo size, details, and placement. For larger projects with multiple sittings expect 4-8 hour sittings.

Yes. For multiple hour tattoos we usually take a stretch break every hour to two hours depending on the tattoo design. However we can take a break or give you a moment at any
 time throughout the tattoo.
Wear comfortable clean clothing that provides easy access to the area being tattooed. Don’t wear anything you’re worried about getting ink on. white clothing is not
 recommended.  
Of course both are welcomed. Please come with headphones if you’d like to do either. I don’t recommend watching comedies. They cause to much movement from laughter which
 can cause mistakes in the tattoo or make the tattoo time take much longer.
We can take a break from your tattoo if you need to make/take a phone call. I ask all calls be taken outside. Phone Calls can become an easy distraction for both the
 tattoo artist and client. facetime or video calls are a huge distraction as well. We can take pictures or record videos for you if you’d like.
Yes both are welcomed and encouraged. take as many as you like just be mindful of bright lights and flashes which can distract me from giving you the best tattoo possible.
How should I take care of my tattoo?

Keep it clean, moisturized and avoid picking or scratching it. I’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions before you leave.

 The outer layer usually heals in 2-3 weeks, while complete healing beneath the skin can take up to 6-8 weeks.

You can shower the same day unless I tell you otherwise. Avoid soaking your tattoo in baths, pools, hot tubs, or lakes until it’s fully healed.

you can swim or be submerged fully under water after about 2 weeks of healing.

Light exercise is usually fine after a day or two, but avoid activities that cause excessive sweating or friction on the tattoo until its healing well.

Yes. Peeling and itching are normal parts of the healing process. Don’t scratch or pick at the tattoo. You may pat it lightly to help with the itching .

Feel free to reach out to me with any concerns. If you notice excessive redness, swelling, worsening pain, pus, or fever, contact a healthcare provider.  

Yes. I offer touch ups when needed. I’ll explain my touch up policy during your appointment.

Will my tattoo fade?

All tattoos naturally soften over time. Protecting your tattoo from the sun and following proper skincare will help keep it looking its best.

Yes. Laser tattoo removal is the most effective method, though it usually requires multiple sessions depending on the tattoo

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