Ink with Intention: Tattoo Care Guide
✦ Pre-care, healing, and everything you need to know for vibrant, long-lasting tattoos.
✧ BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT
2 Weeks Before
• Stop using retinoids, exfoliants, and AHA/BHA products on the area
1 Week Before:
• Avoid sunburn or tanning the area at least one week before your session.
• Do not shave the area yourself – your artist will do this if needed.
48 Hours Before:
• No alcohol, ibuprofen, marijuana, fish oil, or other blood thinners 48 hours before your tattoo.
Day of Appointment:
• Do not consume caffeine on the day of the procedure, as it can increase sensitivity.
• Avoid working out right before your tattoo – sweating can affect the skin.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the tattoo area.
• Moisturize the area lightly on the days leading up to your appointment, but skip lotion the day-of.
• Stay hydrated and eat a good meal before your appointment.
• Bring valid ID and arrive well-rested and on time.
• Reschedule if you have breakouts, burns, or irritation in the treated area
• Let your artist know about any allergies, sensitivities, or medical conditions
For Your Convenience
Want a copy of your instructions on hand? Save these digital copies of your Pre-Care + Aftercare instructions below!
✧ AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS
Days 1-5:
• Keep the Saniderm on for 4-5 days (or plastic wrap for 24 hours). During this time, the tattoo may ooze plasma, ink, and fluids – this is normal.
• Do not puncture or remove early.
Days 5-10:
• Remove Saniderm under running water after 4-5 days. Wash the tattooed area gently with warm water and fragrance-free soap.
• Avoid rubbing – pat dry with a clean towel.
• Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free moisturizer. Continue washing and moisturizing at least twice daily (or 3x for large tattoos).
• Skin may begin to peel and itch – do not scratch or pick.
Days 10-14:
• Peeling should subside, but the skin may remain sensitive, itchy, or pink. Continue moisturizing.
• Avoid excessive sun exposure.
Days 15-30:
• The tattoo should be fully healed. Any leftover flakes will fall off naturally.
• Color may appear more vibrant as the skin regenerates.
• Final healed results may continue to evolve for several weeks
✧ WHAT TO EXPECT WHILE HEALING
• Peeling and itching are normal around Days 6-10.
• Color will appear darker at first and lighten as it settles.
• Pink or shiny new skin may remain for a few weeks post-healing.
• Full healing and color clarity occur by Day 30.
✧ LONG-TERM TATTOO CARE
Your tattoo is permanent art – proper care will keep it looking fresh and vibrant for years.
• SPF is your best friend. Use sunscreen daily after your tattoo heals to prevent fading.
• Moisturize regularly. Keeping the skin hydrated supports color retention.
• Avoid harsh products. Retinoids, acids, and over-exfoliation can break down ink over time.
• Be mindful of friction. Tight clothing or rough surfaces can irritate and fade your tattoo.
• Touch-ups as needed. Some tattoos may require occasional touch-ups based on location and exposure.
✧ Who Should Not Get A Tattoo ✧
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• Are pregnant or nursing
• Have blood disorders or take blood-thinning medication (unless cleared by your doctor)
• Have autoimmune conditions or take immune-suppressing medications (consult your physician)
• Are prone to keloid scarring
• Have uncontrolled diabetes
• Have skin conditions in the area, like eczema, psoriasis, or severe acne
• Are currently on Accutane or strong retinoids (must be off for 6–12 months)
• Have had Botox or fillers in the area within the last 4 weeks
• Have had a chemical peel, microneedling, or laser in the area within the last 4 weeks
• Have severe allergies to pigments or numbing agents (a patch test is recommended)
• Are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation (consult your doctor and wait at least 6 months post-treatment).
• Sunburn, irritation, or open wounds on or near the treated area
• Those currently ill, with a cold or flu-like symptoms