Basic Tattoo Aftercare

CONGRATULATIONS!
You've just received a tattoo by a skilled and knowledgeable professional who cleaned and disinfected the area, and used sterile instruments.
It Is Important That You:

* Keep the bandage on for approximately 2 hours.
* Use only cleansed hands to wash your tattoo, thoroughly but gently, with warm water and Spectro Jel.
* If in the shower, wash hair and everything else BEFORE washing tattoo and do not let direct water-pressure hit the tattoo.
* Do not soak your tattoo (avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, saunas, baths) until the tattoo is completely healed.
* After washing, pat the tattoo dry with a clean towel and let it air dry for 20-30 minutes.
* If the tattoo is oozing or if dried blood, ink or dead skin remains, re-wash gently and air dry.
* Once the tattoo is totally dry and smooth, apply the recommended Tattoo Majik or After Inked. These products are great for both healing and moisturizing. Any water-based, non-scented moisturizers can also be used (Vaseline Intensive Care, Lubriderm, Curel), but will require more frequent applications. Whatever your choice of moisturizer, apply it in very think coats and blot off the excess. If your clothing sticks to it, it indicates there is too much.
* If excessive moisturizer is applied, it will draw out the color from the tattoo, and create a sticky surface for foreign matter to attach itself to, encouraging infection.
* Antibiotic ointments are really only necessary when there is a risk of infection. If you are cleaning your tattoo thoroughly with a mild soap, and if a light layer of scab is formed, you shouldn't be prone to infection.
* If the tattoo is in an area where sweat drains such as the stomach, the back of the neck, or the ankle, it may be beneficial to use an antibiotic such as Betadine H for healing. This ointment is cholesterol-based instead of petroleum-based, making it less sticky and of a better spreading consistency. Once again, be sure to apply only a thin coat.
* Do not re-bandage.
* Apply the lotion as needed for the first day then 4-5 times a day for the next two weeks.
* Do not expose your tattoo to the sun until it has healed. Once healed, you should apply sunscreen to protect it from the sun (SPF 30 is a minimum).
* Keep your tattoo away from dust, sand and pet hair for the first few days. Try to sleep in clean sheets and wear clean clothes.