Best Studio Ever

Tattoo
Aftercare

We know you're as excited as we are about your new tattoo, and we've made easy to follow instructions for the best healing process ever. We tattoo in Washington at Deep Roots, and in Oregon at High Priestess.
Deep Roots High Priestess

Tattoo Aftercare

Congratulations on your new tattoo! Following these simple instructions will get you through the healing process. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to come see us!

  • Normal healing time is usually 2-4 weeks.
  • While your tattoo is healing you must always wash your hands before touching it. 
  • Remove the bandage after the amount of time your tattoo artist suggests.
  • Wash your tattoo daily. Use clean hands, warm water, and a mild, fragrance-free soap daily. Wash again if it gets sweaty or dirty. Do not use a washcloth or anything abrasive to clean it.
  • Air dry or pat dry your tattoo with a clean, disposable paper towel after you wash it. Do not use bath towels while healing. 
  • A specific moisturizer might be suggested by your tattooer. We typically prefer scent-free, natural lotions and moisturizers with minimal ingredients. 
  • Use moisturizer/lotion only when the tattoo feels dry by applying a very thin layer with clean hands and rubbing in until completely absorbed. Use lotion no more than 2-3 times a day. Over-moisturizing can negatively affect healing. 
  • Choose loose fitting clothes that have fabrics which won't rub or snag on the skin or are otherwise rough to the touch.

Normal healing includes 

Swelling - Itching - Mild soreness - Light scabbing - Flaking - Dry skin

Also, scabs/flakes are the color of the tattoo, seeping clear fluid for 1-3 days, and/or the tattoo feels slightly warm to the touch.

Things to avoid with a healing tattoo

  • Do not soak or submerge your tattoo while it is healing. This includes swimming, soaking in a hot tub, baths, or any other body of water.
  • Do not re-bandage the tattoo.
  • Never use antibiotic or antibacterial ointments.
  • Do not expose your healing tattoo to direct sunlight or a tanning bed. Always use an SPF after it’s healed for sun protection.
  • Never pick, scrub, shave, or scratch your tattoo while it’s healing.

Remember, it takes two people to have a successful tattoo experience - a skilled tattoo artist, and a customer knowledgeable about properly taking care of the tattoo during the healing time.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your tattoo artist.

Deep Roots
High Priestess