Tattoo Prep & Aftercare

  • A little preparation helps your skin handle the tattoo better and makes the appointment more comfortable.

    • Moisturize regularly for the week leading up to your appointment, especially if your skin is dry. Healthy, hydrated skin is much easier to tattoo.

    • Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water during the few days before your appointment.

    • Avoid sunburn and tanning on the area being tattooed. I cannot tattoo skin that is sunburned, damaged or heavily irritated.

    • Avoid excessive alcohol for at least 24 hours before your appointment.

    • Don't over-exfoliate or irritate the area. Avoid anything that could leave cuts, razor burn or damaged skin.

    • Shaving isn't necessary. I'll prepare and shave the area at the studio. If you prefer to shave beforehand, do so carefully and avoid causing any irritation.

    • Get a good night's sleep. Being well rested makes longer tattoo sessions much easier.

    • Eat a proper meal 1–2 hours before your appointment. A balanced meal with protein and carbohydrates will help keep your energy levels up.

    • Bring water and something sugary for longer sessions. Snacks are also welcome.

    • Wear comfortable clothing that gives easy access to the area being tattooed. Keep in mind that clothing may occasionally get ink on it.

  • Following these steps will help your tattoo heal cleanly and keep it looking its best.

    While Using the Pads

    • Remove the pad and gently wash your tattoo with warm water and a mild, unscented soap.

    • Pat dry with clean paper towel. Don't rub or scrub the tattoo.

    • Allow the tattoo to air dry completely before applying a fresh pad.

    • Rewrap with a fresh pad without applying moisturiser underneath.

    • Repeat this process morning and evening until you have finished using the pads.

    Once the Pads Are Off

    • Wash and dry your tattoo gently as above.

    • Apply a very thin layer of unscented moisturiser.

      Aquaphor healing ointment is a great option

    • You only need enough to lightly moisturise the skin — don't smother the tattoo.

    • If the tattoo feels dry or tight, apply another small amount of moisturiser.

    • If it feels comfortable, leave it alone.

    • After several days, the tattoo will usually begin to dry, wrinkle and peel. This is completely normal.

    • Continue lightly moisturising until the peeling and flaking have stopped.

    • Your tattoo may temporarily appear slightly dull, cloudy or silvery as fresh skin forms over it. This will gradually settle as the tattoo heals.

    Things to Avoid

    • Don't pick, scratch or peel any flakes or scabs. Let them come away naturally.

    • Don't soak your tattoo in baths, swimming pools, hot tubs or other bodies of water while it's healing. Showering is fine.

    • Avoid excessive sun exposure while the tattoo heals.

    • Avoid tight or abrasive clothing that continually rubs against the tattoo.

    • Try to keep the tattoo clean, dry and free from unnecessary irritation.

    If Your Tattoo Scabs

    Some light scabbing can happen during healing. Don't pick or knock the scabs off.

    If an area becomes particularly wet or weepy, avoid repeatedly applying moisturiser and allow it to dry. Healing may take a little longer in these areas.

    If you experience increasing redness, swelling, heat, worsening pain, unusual discharge or other signs of infection, seek medical advice.

    The Golden Rule

    Keep it clean, don't over-moisturise it and leave it alone as much as possible.

    If something you're doing makes the tattoo ache, pull, rub or feel irritated, stop and give it a rest.