Aftercare
Tattoo aftercare, day by day.
A great tattoo is half the artist and half the healing. Follow these steps and your piece stays sharp for years. If Carlos gives you different instructions for your piece, follow his.
- Day 1
Leave the wrap, then wash gently
Keep the wrap on for the time Carlos tells you. Wash with clean hands, lukewarm water and unscented soap. Pat dry with a paper towel. Never rub.
- Days 2 to 4
Thin layer of ointment
Wash two or three times a day and apply a very thin layer of aftercare ointment. Too much cream suffocates the skin.
- Days 5 to 14
Peeling is normal. Do not scratch
The skin will flake and itch. Do not pick or scratch. Switch to a fragrance-free lotion and keep it moisturized.
- Weeks 2 to 4
No pools, no sun, no soaking
Avoid swimming pools, the beach, hot tubs and direct sun until fully healed. Showers are fine, long baths are not.
- For life
Sunscreen keeps it sharp
Once healed, use SPF 30 or higher on your tattoo every time you are in the sun. The Florida sun is the biggest enemy of ink.
Watch for this: Redness that spreads, heat, swelling that grows after day 3, pus or fever are not normal. Contact a doctor and let Carlos know.