TATTOO AFTERCARE Depending on your tattoo and artist’s preference, you may be sent home with one of the following aftercare methods:
1. SANIDERM / SECOND SKIN 🩹 A medical-grade, latex-free, breathable and waterproof bandage.
Days 1–3: You’ll see plasma and ink collect under the bandage — this is normal! It may look like your tattoo is “smearing,” but it’s just surface buildup. Leave the bandage on for 2–3 days, then remove it under warm running water. Gently pull the bandage flat and away from the tattoo, try to avoid pulling upward. Take your time to avoid pulling off any scabbing.
Note: If you experience excessive redness, itching, or irritation, you may be reacting to the adhesive. In that case, remove it immediately.
After Removal: Begin gentle cleansing and moisturizing (see general care below).
2. COOLING GEL PATCH 🧊 A soft, cushy dressing designed to soothe and protect during the first few hours post-tattoo.
Day 1: This patch is meant to be worn for just a few hours after your appointment — primarily to protect your tattoo while you get home and settle in. It helps reduce irritation and provides an initial cooling effect.
Removal: Once you're home, gently wet the bandage to allow moisture to seep through. This will loosen the patch so you can peel it off slowly and gently. Do not sleep with it on. After removal, clean your tattoo gently with fragrance-free soap and water, pat dry, and let it breathe. Then follow the general aftercare steps below.
3. PLASTIC WRAP (SARAN WRAP) 🌬️ A short-term barrier to get you home safely.
Your artist has sanitized the skin, and this wrap helps keep the area clean while you travel. It’s not breathable, so avoid sweating and remove as soon as you're in a clean environment. Once home, gently wash your tattoo with fragrance-free soap and following the general care below. Do not rewrap!
4. OPEN SKIN (NO WRAP)🌿 Generally used for delicate linework tattoos or if your skin is sensitive.
Before bed or the following morning, gently wash with fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean paper towel and let your skin breathe. Start applying moisturizer the next day and following the general care below. Do not rewrap!
🧼 GENERAL CARE (AFTER WRAP IS OFF)
Days 2–21:
* Wash your tattoo 1–2x daily with fragrance-free, gentle soap
* Pat dry with a clean paper towel
* Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free lotion — your skin should feel hydrated, not greasy
* Scabbing, flaking, and itching is totally normal — do not pick or scratch!
Avoid: direct sun, soaking (baths, pools, hot tubs), tight clothing, spray tan, or heavy workouts that cause friction on the tattoo for 2 weeks
Weeks 3-4+: The surface should be mostly healed, but deeper layers may still be repairing. You can now begin using gentle sunscreen when your tattoo is exposed to sunlight. We’d love to see how your tattoo healed! Feel free to send us a photo so we can check if any touch-up is needed.
🛍️ AFTERCARE ESSENTIALS
We carry the below aftercare products at the shop if you'd like to grab something during your appointment!
Mad Rabbit Foaming Cleanser – gentle, fragrance-free, and great for daily washing
Hustle Butter – a nourishing balm to keep your tattoo moisturized
Want to browse more? Check out our recommended shopping list for a full list of artist-approved aftercare items.
Avoid applying: Vaseline/petroleum jelly, Neosporin or antibiotic ointments, alcohol-based products, or baby oil
🔁 TOUCH-UPS
Healing can vary based on your skin, how well aftercare was followed, and the location of the tattoo. If you notice any light spots or fading, feel free to send a photo and your artist will help you determine if a touch-up is needed.
Touch-up pricing: Free within 2 months, $25 after 2 months
*Note: hand tattoos are always $25 due to their high fade potential