1. If you're using a non adhesive bandage, remove it after about 3-5 hours, or whenever you're ready to settle in for the night and wash it. If you're using an adhesive bandage like saniderm, remove it in 2-3 days by pulling in the same direction as your skin (like a command strip). Removing it in a warm shower can make it easier.

After removing your bandage, gently wash the new tattoo with water and fragrance-free (not unscented) antibacterial soap, using clean hands, then rinse. Never use a washcloth or luffa, or products containing essential oils on a new tattoo. Allow to air dry or pat dry with a clean paper towel and do not rebandage. Congrats you have a new tattoo!

 

2. Use, fragrance-free and alcohol-free lotion, or ointment to moisturize the tattoo up to 2x a day (i.e. after showering, and in the morning) Using as little product as you can. ​

 ~ a note on ointments: It is incredibly easy to misuse ointment moisturizers like Aquaphor. You must use it correctly or infection/ink loss can take place. Use the smallest amount possible, and rub it in gently. If the skin is still shiny, wipe off the excess product with a clean hand. I don't ever suggest using ointment on a fresh tattoo for at least 24hrs after getting it~

 

3. The initial open wound healing stage usually takes up to two weeks. In this phase, wash your tattoo with antibacterial/fragrance-free soap and clean hands 1-3x a day, and moisturize as needed, no more than 3x a day. At around day 4-6, your tattoo may begin peel, flake and itch. Do not rub pick or scratch the tattoo while it is healing and peeling. It may get very itchy, patting is fine. After the peeling is over (typically around the 3 week mark), the tattoo will look a bit shiny and may still feel tender. At this stage the open wound is healed, and you may moisturize as much as you like. The ink will continue to settle in for up to three months.

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4. Stay out of the sunlight, lakes, pools, baths, hot tubs, saunas and tanning booths until the tattoo is completely healed (at least one month). Cover your new tattoo completely while going outside. It is not suggested to put sunscreen on a tattoo in its open would phase (first 15 days, or until the peeling has stopped). Do not submerge your new tattoo in water while it is healing. Sun exposure will fade your tattoo. This can be minimized by using sunscreen, at least SP50, on your tattoos when outside for any length of time, during any time of year. Tattoo ink is photosensitive, particularly color ink. This means the body can have a histamine reaction if the tattoo has been exposed to too much sun. If this happens while its still healing you may see small blisters and it will be very itchy or even painful. If this happens, continue aftercare as instructed, and do not expose the area to any sunlight until it heals. Histamine reactions can happen to any tattoo no matter how old, so if you notice your tattoo feeling itchy and raised, you may need to step out of the sun, or drink some water. 

 

5. Everyone has an opinion about what healing method is best. You will learn your preferred way; this is mine. If your tattoo looks like it needs a touchup, or there are any other issues with it, email me with photos, and I will get you scheduled at no cost.

 

Should you have any problems or questions you may always email me!​      spaceghosttattoo@gmail.com