It is extremely important to follow all aftercare instructions. Improper care of your tattoo can result in patchiness, scarring, ink fallout, and possibly infection. It is your responsibility to look after your tattoo. The studio will not be held responsible for any complications in the healing of your tattoo due to your own negligence. At any point if you have any questions or concerns, no matter how small, about your tattoo or the healing process, we strongly encourage you to reach out to us, either by telephone, email, messenger or come down to the shop. We want to make sure you have a piece of art you can enjoy for the rest of your life.

The following aftercare instructions outline directions that are suitable for most people. Your personal needs may be different. This could be due to skin issues or sensitivity, your immune system or any other factors. Discuss any medical concerns with your doctor before getting a tattoo. Artists and staff at the studio are happy to answer any questions or offer additional information regarding aftercare procedures. Caring for your new tattoo now will ensure it looks its best once it is healed for the future.

• Your artist will place a clear wrap over your tattoo; leave this on for approximately 2 hours, unless advised by artist otherwise. This is designed to keep your tattoo safe until you are home or to a place where you can clean your tattoo properly. Do not leave the wrap on longer than necessary, or overnight.

• For the first wash (when the plastic wrap comes off), gently rinse your tattoo with lukewarm water to remove any Vaseline, plasma or ink leakage. Allow the area to air dry. Do not rewrap your tattoo.

• Going forward for the next 2- 3 weeks, follow a simple washing and moisturizing routine.

• Gently wash your tattoo twice a day (this is a sufficient amount of times per day for most people) with unscented cleanser. Always wash your hands before handling your tattoo. Use light patting motions to cleanse. Never scrub or use anything abrasive such as washcloths or loofahs.

• Once you have cleansed and rinsed the cleanser off your tattoo, gently pat dry with a clean piece of paper towel. Do not reuse paper towel. Do not use a regular towel, t-shirt, yesterday’s socks, or any old rag that’s lying around. If you prefer, allow the tattoo to air dry completely instead.

• Once the area is dry, apply a thin layer of unscented lotion or balm. Do not glob on moisturizer. A thin layer is best. You do not want to have a thick layer of goop on your tattoo trapping in moisture or bacteria. Let it breathe!

• Your tattoo may become itchy and start to flake, usually around the 2-4 day mark. During this stage of the healing process you may apply a thin layer of moisturizer or balm a few times throughout the day. This can help take the edge off the itch. While annoying it is part of the process and shouldn’t last too long. Extra cleansing during this time is not necessary. Continue with your regular twice daily cleansing.

• DO NOT pick or scratch at your tattoo at any point. Doing so can cause scarring, patchy spots or introduce infection. Loose flakes and patches of skin are normal. Allow them to fall off on their own. They do not need any help. While unsightly, LEAVE IT ALONE. If it is itchy just SLAP IT!

• Avoid tight or abrasive clothing during the healing process.

• Avoid excessive sweating in the first few days after getting your tattoo, this can cause an environment where bacteria can thrive and possibly compromise the healing of your tattoo.

• No soaking of any kind for 4-6 weeks after getting your tattoo. This includes but is not limited to lakes, oceans, pools, baths, hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, streams, swimming holes, and creeks. You do not want your tattoo coming into contact with unnecessary moisture. These places also tend to have high concentrations of bacteria that can cause problems for your healing tattoo.

• Do not expose your new tattoo to direct sun light or use tanning beds until it is fully healed. The Sun and tanning beds can age your tattoos faster than normal. Once healed, we HIGHLY recommend using sunscreen on your tattoo(s) (SPF 50 is ideal)

• Following all of the above will leave you with an amazing work of art, happy skin, and most of all a very happy artist that will gladly have you back (if followed correctly)

• We are pleased to offer cleanser and balm, available for purchase, at the studio. Our products have been custom formulated to promote healing without fragrances or dyes. A full list of ingredients is available at the studio. Protect your investment!