Aftercare Instructions For Your New Tattoo – Liquid Gold Tattoo

AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS - LIQUID GOLD TATTOO STUDIO & ART GALLERY IN DOWNTOWN DELAND, FLORIDA

Taking care of your new tattoo is crucial for ensuring it heals properly and looks great long-term. Here is a detailed aftercare guide to help you care for your tattoo in the days and weeks following the procedure. At Liquid Gold Tattoo, each of our Artists have their own preferred method of healing a new tattoo, and they will give you their specific version at the end of your tattoo session. Below is a general guide to healing your new tattoo:

Immediate Aftercare Instructions (First 24 Hours)

1. Leave the Bandage On:
   • Your Artist will apply a bandage or wrap to protect the fresh tattoo. Leave this on for 2–6 hours, depending on their instructions. The bandage shields the area from bacteria and prevents clothing from rubbing against it.
2. Washing Your Tattoo:
   • After removing the bandage, gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap.
   • Use your clean hands (not a washcloth or sponge) to lightly clean the tattoo, removing any plasma, blood or excess ink.
   • Do not scrub - gentle motions will help prevent irritation.
   • Pat the area dry with a clean, soft towel. Do not rub.
3. Apply a Thin Layer of Aftercare Ointment:
   • After cleaning, apply a thin layer of a tattoo aftercare ointment like unscented lotion, Aquaphor, A&D ointment or another recommended product.
   • Avoid using thick ointments or creams that could suffocate the skin.
   • Do not overapply; a thin, breathable layer is ideal.

Days 2–7: Early Healing Phase

1. Keep it Clean:
   • Continue washing the tattoo 2-3 times a day with mild soap and water. Each time, pat dry with a clean towel.
   • Reapply a thin layer of aftercare ointment or fragrance-free lotion after cleaning.
2. Avoid Soaking the Tattoo:
   • Do not submerge your tattoo in water - no baths, swimming, hot tubs or saunas. Showers are fine as long as you avoid letting the water blast directly on the tattoo.
   • Excess moisture can damage the healing skin, leading to scabbing or infection.
3. Expect Light Peeling and Scabbing:
   • The tattooed skin may begin to peel or lightly scab between days 3 and 7. This is normal.
   • Do not pick or scratch at the scabs or flakes. Let them fall off naturally to avoid scarring or damaging the tattoo.
4. Keep It Moisturized:
   • Switch to a lighter, fragrance-free lotion (like Lubriderm, Aveeno or tattoo-specific lotions) instead of ointment as the peeling begins.
   • Apply the lotion lightly throughout the day, as needed, to prevent excessive dryness.

Week 2–4: Mid-Healing Phase

1. Avoid Sun Exposure:
   • Sun can be damaging to your healing tattoo. Keep it covered with loose, clean clothing or stay out of direct sunlight.
   • After the tattoo has fully healed, always apply a high-SPF sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to protect the tattoo from fading and damage.
2. Continue Light Moisturizing:
   • At this point, the tattoo should be mostly healed but may still feel dry or tight. Continue to apply a light, fragrance-free lotion 1–2 times daily.
3. Be Mindful of Activities:
   • Avoid strenuous activities that could stretch or irritate the tattooed skin (especially in joints or areas of frequent movement).
   • If your tattoo is in an area prone to friction (like wrists, ankles or underarms), be mindful of clothing or accessories that might rub against it.

Long-Term Tattoo Care (After 4 Weeks)

1. Your Tattoo is Healed:
   • After about 4 weeks, most tattoos will be fully healed, though larger pieces or certain skin types may take longer.
2. Sunscreen:
   • Apply sunscreen to your tattoo every time it’s exposed to the sun. UV rays can fade your tattoo and damage the skin, so consistent protection is key to keeping your tattoo vibrant over time.
3. Moisturizing:
   • Keep your skin healthy by moisturizing regularly, even after healing. Well-moisturized skin helps maintain the brightness of your tattoo.
4. Monitor for Complications:
   • If you notice any unusual redness, swelling, prolonged scabbing or pus, consult a doctor or your Tattoo Artist as these could be signs of infection.

Additional Aftercare Instructions, Tips & Things to Avoid

• Avoid Tight Clothing: Wear loose, breathable clothing that won’t irritate the tattoo during healing.
• Don’t Scratch or Pick: Even though it may itch as it heals, scratching can damage the skin and the tattoo. Here's a pro tip - if it itches... smack it!
• No Fragrances or Alcohol-Based Products: Avoid using scented lotions, alcohol-based cleansers or harsh chemicals on your tattoo, as they can irritate the skin and slow the healing process.

Avoid Excessive Exercise: For tattoos near joints or in areas of frequent motion, minimize intense activity for the first 1-2 weeks to prevent the skin from stretching and breaking.

Want to see what others are saying about our Studio? Check out our Google Business Profile to read customer reviews and see our latest work. If you’ve already visited us and enjoyed your experience, we’d love for you to leave a review and share your thoughts.

Don’t miss out on any of the exciting updates, events or tattoo specials we offer at Liquid Gold Tattoo Studio & Art Gallery. Click on our social media links to follow us across all platforms and stay updated on everything happening in our vibrant community!

Liquid Gold Tattoo Studio is open every day from noon to midnight, we welcome walk-ins - and appointments are available. Call us at 386-279-7517 or stop by the Studio today - and let's talk tattoo!

Liquid Gold Tattoo Studio & Art Gallery • 115 W Rich Avenue • downtown DeLand, FL 32720 • www.LiquidGoldTattoo.com