Tattoo Aftercare

Click on a method to see details on instructions
Bandage Method
  • Applied by artist after tattoo session is completed. No need to follow traditional tattoo healing process. 
  • Leave bandage in place covering the fresh tattoo for 5 days before removal
  • On the 5th day, remove bandage. Running bandage under warm water will aid in removal as you peel it off from the tattooed area.
  • Wash with warm water and a mild FRAGRANCE FREE soap, pat dry with a clean paper towel, and let air dry for 3-5 minutes before applying a thin layer of lotion
  • Continue to moisturize with lotion until tattoo is fully healed
    • It is highly recommended to continue moisturizing your healed tattoo to prolong the life of the tattoo in addition to using SPF sunblock whenever the tattoo will be exposed to UV rays or sunlight
  • You can go swimming with the bandage
  • If the bandage needs to be removed before 3 days (due to skin irritation, discomfort, excessive perspiration from physical activity) use a tattoo approved ointment for 1-2 days before switching to lotion. Please refer to "Traditional Healing" for the rest of your tattoo recovery
  • The second skin bandages our artist use are great for speeding up recovery, however the tattoo still takes additional time to heal after bandage comes off. After your bandage comes off, tattoo may appear faded from new skin and scar tissue. ​Tattoo is considered fully healed ~a month after last tattoo session. 
traditional Healing
  • Remove bandage in 1.5 - 2 hours
  • Wash immediately using FRAGERANCE FREE soap and rinse 8-10 minutes under hot water, (As hot as you can withstand)
  • With a clean paper towel, pat dry tattooed area and air dry 3-5 minutes before applying a thin layer of ointment
  • Using clean hands, apply a thin layer of ointment 2-3 times daily or as dryness requires (try to wash in between ointment applications when possible while taking caution of the location’s washing amenities)
  • On the 4th day stop applying ointment and switch to applying lotion (fragrance free lotion with vitamin E can be used as an alternative to expedite healing)
  • Avoid the following for minimum 2 weeks; prolonged sun exposure, soaking in bodies of water (bath included), swimming (including the ocean), and jacuzzi lounging (chlorine will drastically fade a healing tattoo)
  • If any scabbing should occur, DO NOT PICK your scabs as it will damage the healing tattoo for in your scabs is ink that needs the opportunity to heal back in to the skin
Additonal Questions
*If you have any further questions please call NBI at 484-328-8760. Our treatment advice is not to be taken over the advice of a doctor or medical professional.