Your tattoo is special. Treat it that way!

There are many tried and true methods to heal your new tattoo. Your artist will take your skin type, tattoo size and location, your preferences, and any allergies into account when recommending an aftercare regime. This page contains general guidelines, and if you have specific questions you should consult your artist.

Transparent Dressing

Your artist will apply a transparent dressing to your tattoo before you leave the studio. It is designed to protect your tattoo while healing, and is safe to wear under clothes and in the shower.

  • Leave the dressing in place for 24 hours. If after 24 hours, the dressing is still well adhered to the skin, and there is not a large amount of fluid underneath it, you may leave it in place. If it is not well adhered, or there is a large pocket of fluid underneath the dressing, gently remove it, wash the tattooed area with an unscented antibacterial soap, and let it air dry or pat dry with a clean paper towel. You may then replace it with the extra dressing provided by your artist.

  • When applying the second dressing, first remove the paper backing and place the sticky side on your tattoo, making sure that it covers the entire tattoo and forms a seal around the edges. Once the dressing is in place, remove the top layer.

  • Whether you have left the original dressing on or applied a new one, keep the dressing on the tattoo for a total of 3-5 days. If you have a dirty job or are worried about contaminating your tattoo before it is healed, speak with your artist.

  • If at any time the dressing begins leaking fluid, or peels away from the skin exposing the tattoo, it must be removed. Once the dressing is removed, follow the traditional aftercare instructions.

  • Tips for removing the dressing: Peel up a corner of the dressing, and stretch it parallel to the skin. This will hurt less than pulling away from the body. It may also help to remove the dressing in the shower. There may be an imprint of your tattoo on the dressing, this is just excess ink and is normal.

Traditional Healing

If your tattoo is in a location that isn’t suitable for a transparent dressing, or if you have an allergy or sensitivity to adhesives, your artist will recommend using a traditional healing method. Always remember to wash your hands before touching your tattoo.

  • Leave the tattoo alone for 3-4 hours, then gently wash it with an unscented antibacterial soap (such as Dial) and warm water. Use only your fingertips, no washcloths, sponges, etc. Let it air dry or pat dry with a clean paper towel.

  • Once the tattoo is completely dry, apply a VERY THIN layer of ointment. It is important to use no more than you need to keep the tattoo hydrated. You want the tattoo to be moisturized, but it should not appear wet, as this will lead to poor healing and increases the risk of infection. See a list of ointments recommended by ChromaWorks HERE.

  • Repeat the process of washing, drying, and applying ointment twice daily until the tattoo begins to flake or peel. At this point you can switch to moisturizing with an unscented lotion.

  • Your tattoo should be fully healed within 2-4 weeks.

  • Always make sure your hands are clean before touching your healing tattoo.

    Apply ointment/lotion when your tattoo feels dry.

    Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight. Once it is fully healed, consider using sunscreen to keep it looking great for years to come.

  • Exercise for at least 24 hours after your tattoo appointment. If your tattoo is large or covers a large portion of your body, you may want to avoid exercise for several days.

    Soak or submerge your tattoo for at least 4 weeks. This means no baths, hot tubs, saunas, or swimming until your tattoo is fully healed.

    Over-moisturize. If your tattoo appears wet or “goopy,” you are likely applying too much ointment or lotion. This delays healing and makes it easier to damage your tattoo.

    Let anyone else touch your tattoo until it is fully healed. This includes pets!

    Pick at your tattoo. Scabs, flakes, and peeling can all be part of the healing process. For best results, let them fall off on their own.

    Scratch your tattoo. Itching is a normal part of the healing process, but scratching may damage your artwork. Applying a small amount of ointment or lotion may help.

  • If your tattoo continues to be painful for more than 3 days, or if pain has gotten better but then starts to worsen.

    If your tattoo is very red, swollen and hot more than 24 hours after your appointment.

    If your tattoo is oozing more than 48 hours after your appointment.

    If you think you may be having an allergic reaction.