Tattoo Pre-Care

Preparing properly for your tattoo helps the session go smoother, reduces irritation, and supports better healing. Please read through the following guidelines carefully before your appointment.

24–48 Hours Before

  • Stay hydrated. Well-hydrated skin takes ink better and tolerates longer sessions more comfortably.

  • Eat regular meals. Low blood sugar can lead to dizziness, nausea, or fainting.

  • Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs. These thin the blood and can increase bleeding and swelling.

  • Limit caffeine if possible. Excess caffeine can make you jittery and affect blood pressure.

  • Get a good night’s sleep. Being rested helps with pain tolerance and focus.

Medications & Health

  • Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen, or other blood-thinning medications unless prescribed by a doctor.

  • If you take daily medications, have a medical condition, are pregnant, or have concerns about healing, please disclose this before your appointment.

  • If you are feeling sick, run down, or fighting an infection, rescheduling is always better than pushing through.

Skin Preparation

  • Shower the day of your appointment. Clean skin is essential.

  • Do not tan, burn, or exfoliate the area being tattooed.

  • Do not apply lotions, oils, or numbing creams unless discussed and approved ahead of time.

  • If hair removal is needed, it will be done professionally at the studio — please don’t shave the area yourself unless instructed.

What to Wear

  • Wear clean, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the tattoo area.

  • Dark or loose clothing is recommended in case of ink transfer.

  • Consider layers — studio temperatures vary.

What to Bring

  • A valid photo ID.

  • Snacks and drinks (especially for longer sessions).

  • Headphones, a book, or something calming if you prefer quiet.

  • Payment method ready for the day of your appointment.

Mental & Physical Readiness

  • Arrive calm, nourished, and on time.

  • Please avoid bringing guests unless previously discussed.

  • This is a private studio focused on comfort and focus — showing up prepared helps maintain that environment for everyone.

Bright blue neon sign reading 'Tattoo Care' against a black background.

Tattoo AftercareWith Second Skin

Second skin acts as a protective barrier and helps reduce irritation during the first stage of healing.

First 24–48 Hours

  • Leave the second skin on for the amount of time discussed during your appointment.

  • Some fluid buildup under the bandage is normal.

  • If the bandage leaks, lifts significantly, or becomes compromised, remove it and switch to standard aftercare.

Removing Second Skin

  • Wash your hands before removal.

  • Gently peel the bandage off under lukewarm running water, pulling it slowly back over itself.

  • Do not rip or pull it away from the skin.

  • Once removed, clean the tattoo with mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water.

  • Pat dry with a clean paper towel.

After Removal

  • Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free lotion.

  • Continue washing the tattoo 2–3 times daily and moisturizing lightly.

  • Do not reapply second skin unless specifically instructed.

What to Avoid

  • No soaking, swimming, or baths.

  • Avoid sun exposure and tanning.

  • Do not apply petroleum-based products or scented lotions.

  • Avoid tight clothing or heavy friction over the area.

Tattoo AftercareWithout Second Skin

If no second skin was applied, follow these steps closely during the first few days.

First Day

  • Keep the bandage on for the time discussed during your appointment.

  • Remove the bandage, wash your hands, and gently clean the tattoo with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap.

  • Pat dry with a clean paper towel.

  • Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free ointment as recommended.

  • Wear clean, loose clothing over the area.

Days 2–7

  • Wash the tattoo 2–3 times daily with clean hands.

  • Switch from ointment to fragrance-free lotion once the tattoo begins to dry.

  • Light redness, warmth, swelling, and peeling are normal.

  • Do not scratch, pick, or over-moisturize.

What to Avoid

  • No soaking, swimming, or hot tubs.

  • No tanning or direct sun exposure.

  • Avoid tight clothing and excessive friction.

  • Avoid heavy sweating or intense workouts during early healing.

  • Do not use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or scented products.