So you did it. You chose a design you love, made the appointment and got your tattoo done by one of the best artists in the industry. And he or she probably told you all kinds of things you need to know to take care of your ink. But you’re coming down from the adrenaline rush and not remembering half of it. We’ve got you.
Here’s what you need to know to take care of your tattoo, keep it healthy and make sure it stays amazing for life.
Heal for real.
You have different skin than anyone else. So when it comes to healing time, that will be different, too. In general, give it two months but expect the surface to heal in two to three weeks.
Hands free.
Your hands aren't as clean as you think. Touching your tattoo could put you at risk for infection. So don’t touch it unless you’ve washed your hands with antibacterial soap.
Cover up.
Leave your bandage on for up to three hours. After that, wash it gently with warm water and antibacterial soap. No scrubbing. Just pat dry with a paper towel. No more bandaids.
The big no-no’s
Avoid these things before the surface of your tattoo is healed: Chlorine pools, hot tubs, lake/ocean water, direct sunlight, tanning beds, harsh chemicals and the urge to pick at it.
After Inked.
Hands down, this is one of our favorite aftercare products. It works like magic. After washing your tattoo with mild soap and pat drying it, just apply a thin layer of After Inked Moisturizer to clean hands and gently massage over the tattoo area. A little bit goes a long way. Never apply more than a thin layer but don’t let the area dry either.
Bill Gerber, creator of After Inked explains:
“When the artist dips that needle into the ink and starts tattooing, the needle goes deep into the dermis layer of your skin, creating essentially an open wound that you need to take care of properly and protect it while it heals and thereafter.”
Bill has worked with Hart & Huntington for more than 10 years now. Our art and his products combined have given us clients for life.
So what does After Inked have in it? It’s more about what it doesn’t have.
“This is not a chemical concoction. We pick the most beneficial ingredients for your tattoo and your skin.”
“Our products are formulated for perfection. It’s vegan, non-petroleum based, non-GMO, dermatologist-tested, non-irritant and non-allergenic.”
“One of its main ingredients is Grape Seed Oil, a potent antioxidant which basically helps to retool the skin by reducing transepidermal water loss, keeping your tattoo moisturized and helping to keep the colors vibrant.”
“For the incredible canvases that leave Hart & Huntington, After Inked lotion makes them really look good. People come back for more.”
Congratulations on your new tattoo. Don’t make aftercare an afterthought, apply After Inked Tattoo Moisturizer daily to protect the life of your tattoo.
