AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS
You have just received a new tattoo done under conditions conductive to a healthy tattoo. To keep your tattoo and yourself out of danger, please follow the instructions stated in this document 3-5 times daily.
Your tattoo should take 10-30 days to heal. Please follow these instructions for no less that 14 days.
Always wash your hands prior to applying any aftercare to a tattoo!
Leave your bandage on for 1 to 2 hours. You have an open wound that can become infected without protection. After removing bandage, wash your tattoo with a mild soap and warm water. Do not use an antibacterial soap, allow your tattoo to air dry, this will prevent the introduction of lint, bacteria or other foreign matter into your tattoo. Do not re-bandage your tattoo.
For the first 3 days apply a thin layer of ointment (Bacitracin, Aquaphor, a/d ointment, Neosporin, etc.) after each washing. You shouldn’t be able to see a fingerprint in the ointment, if you do, you have too much on.
After the 3rd day, switch to an unscented hand lotion. Be sure that the lotion is fragrance free. Always wash your tattoo prior to the application of aftercare products.
While you are healing, you must not pick or scratch your tattoo, allow other to touch your tattoo, sunbathe or soak your tattoo (pools, lakes, hot tubs oceans or any other free standing body of water). This will damage your tattoo and expose you to other potentially hazardous materials.
Your tattoo should peel and flake like a sunburn. In some cases, scabbing occurs. This is normal. If any concerns arise, seek medical attention immediately.
While healing, it is not uncommon for a tattoo to itch, burn, or sometimes sting. These are normal occurrences. In very rare cases, this is an indication of a problem. If you are concerned, seek medical attention immediately.
In some cases, pigments and ointments used during the tattoo process can result in allergic or systemic reactions. if you have any concerns regarding these reactions, please seek medical attention immediately.
Touch-ups on tattoos are sometimes needed. If this is the case and it is no fault of your own, touch-ups are done free of charge within one year of the initial tattoo.
Do not listen to the advise of others regarding aftercare. If you do not follow the aftercare provided by True West Tattoo, we are not responsible for the outcome of your tattoo.