Aftercare
Every skin heals differently — if anything feels off, don't wait, reach out.
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First 24 hours
Keep the bandage on for the time your artist recommends, usually 2 to 4 hours.
- Wash gently with unscented antibacterial soap and lukewarm water.
- Pat dry with a clean paper towel — never rub.
- Do not re-bandage unless your artist tells you to.
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Days 2 to 14
This is when it flakes and itches. Hold out: most of what goes wrong with a tattoo happens in this stage.
- Wash the tattoo 2 or 3 times a day.
- Apply a thin layer of unscented, fragrance-free healing ointment or lotion — never petroleum jelly in large amounts.
- Do not pick, scratch, or peel any flaking skin.
- Wear loose, clean clothing over the area.
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2 to 3 weeks
On the island this is the hardest part to follow, and it is exactly what protects your tattoo the most. Avoid:
- Direct sunlight and tanning beds.
- Swimming pools, the ocean, hot tubs and long baths — soaking softens the skin and can push out ink.
- Tight clothing that rubs against the tattoo.
- Gyms, saunas and heavy sweating, if you can help it.