Healing Guide

Aftercare

Proper aftercare is essential for a clean heal and vibrant, long-lasting tattoo. Follow these steps to protect your new art.

First 2 Hours

  • •Leave the bandage on for the time Tony recommends — typically 2–4 hours.
  • •Find a clean environment before removing the bandage.
  • •Do not re-bandage the tattoo unless instructed to do so.

First Wash

  • •Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the tattoo.
  • •Gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free, gentle soap.
  • •Use your fingertips — never a washcloth, sponge, or loofah.
  • •Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Never rub.

Days 1–3

  • •Wash the tattoo 2–3 times per day with lukewarm water and gentle soap.
  • •Apply a thin layer of unscented moisturizer or the aftercare product Tony recommends.
  • •Let the tattoo breathe — do not over-moisturize or wrap it.
  • •Wear loose, breathable clothing over the tattooed area.

Days 4–14

  • •Continue washing and moisturizing 2–3 times daily.
  • •Your tattoo will start to peel and flake — this is normal.
  • •Do NOT pick, scratch, or peel the flaking skin. Let it shed naturally.
  • •Itching is normal. Gently tap or slap the area instead of scratching.

Weeks 2–4

  • •The tattoo may look slightly cloudy or dull as it heals beneath the surface.
  • •Continue moisturizing daily until the skin feels fully healed.
  • •Avoid prolonged sun exposure on the tattoo.
  • •Once fully healed, always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen to protect the ink.

Important

What to Avoid

  • ✗Submerging the tattoo in water — no pools, hot tubs, baths, or lakes for at least 2–4 weeks
  • ✗Direct sunlight and tanning beds during the healing process
  • ✗Tight or abrasive clothing over the fresh tattoo
  • ✗Picking, scratching, or peeling flaking skin
  • ✗Applying petroleum-based products (like Vaseline) unless specifically recommended
  • ✗Heavy exercise or activities that cause excessive sweating for the first 48–72 hours
  • ✗Letting pets sleep on or near the fresh tattoo

When to Reach Out

Some redness, swelling, and tenderness is completely normal for the first few days. However, contact Tony or a medical professional if you experience:

  • •Excessive redness or swelling that worsens after day 3
  • •Pus or discharge that is yellow or green
  • •Extreme pain or hot skin around the tattoo
  • •Fever or chills
  • •Red streaks spreading from the tattoo

When in doubt, reach out. Tony wants your tattoo to heal perfectly.

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