Ink Kings Tattoo
Tattoo Aftercare
Proper aftercare is essential to preserving the quality of your tattoo. Follow these steps to ensure clean healing and long-lasting, vibrant results. When in doubt, reach out to your artist.
Leave the Bandage On
Keep the bandage or wrap your artist applied for at least 2–4 hours, or as directed. This protects the fresh tattoo from bacteria and contaminants.
Wash Gently
After removing the bandage, wash the tattoo with clean hands using a fragrance-free, mild soap. Use lukewarm water and a light touch — no scrubbing. Pat dry with a clean paper towel.
Moisturize
Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion or a tattoo-specific aftercare product 2–3 times per day. Less is more — a thin layer is all you need. Avoid petroleum-based products.
Let It Breathe
Do not re-wrap the tattoo unless instructed by your artist. Allow air circulation to help the skin heal naturally.
Do Not Pick or Scratch
Peeling and itching are normal parts of healing. Do not pick, scratch, or peel the skin. Doing so can pull out ink and cause scarring or fading.
Avoid Sun & Water
Keep your new tattoo out of direct sunlight, tanning beds, pools, hot tubs, lakes, and the ocean until fully healed — typically 2–4 weeks. Sun exposure is the fastest way to fade a tattoo.
No Soaking
Showers are fine, but avoid submerging the tattoo. Long baths or soaking will draw ink out and interfere with healing.
Wear Loose Clothing
Tight clothing rubbing against a fresh tattoo can cause irritation and ink loss. Wear loose, breathable fabric over the area during the first week.
Questions about your healing tattoo? Contact us and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.