If Using Adhesive Bandage:
Keep the bandage on a minimum of 48 hours, and a maximum of 7 days. Taking the bandage off before 48 hours risks pulling ink out of the fresh tattoo.
If there is fluid buildup of plasma, blood or excess ink this is normal. The tattoo may appear blurry or obscured, and that is not a problem.
To remove, with clean hands, lather the bandage with scent-free antibacterial soap and warm water. Find a loose edge and slowly peel the bandage, working soap and water into the area as you stretch the bandage free in the same direction as your body. Do not rip it off like a band-aid.
Wash the tattoo with soap and dry with a clean paper towel. Apply a thin layer of scent-free lotion daily until tattoo is fully healed.
General Instructions:
There is no need to over moisturize with thick layers of lotion or ointment, this may cause ink fallout. Thin layers of product are best for the healing process.
Do not swim in lakes, pools or any other body of water until your tattoo is fully healed. (3 weeks)
Avoid direct sun and do not visit any tanning salons.
Do not peel any flaking skin, let these fall off naturally. Otherwise you risk ripping out ink.
Seek medical attention if your tattoo site becomes infected. Signs include fever, extreme swelling, sores that release white/yellow fluid, nausea, aches and pains that affect the whole body, and vomiting.
If Using Traditional Aftercare:
After 1 to 2 hours remove the covering applied by your artist.
With clean hands, wash your tattoo with scent-free antibacterial soap, and pat dry with a clean paper towel. Do not scrub the area with a rag or loofa.
Apply a THIN layer of ointment (Aquaphor or similar product. Avoid Vaseline or petroleum jelly.) to the tattoo. Do not rebandage, the area will need air to heal properly.
Repeat for 3 to 5 days.
After 3 to 5 days, you can continue these steps with a mild lotion, free of scents or glitter until the tattoo is fully healed.