Tattoo Aftercare Tips

Different bandages should be left on for different amounts of time, your Hamilton tattoo artist will let you know how long your particular bandage should stay on for.
Immediately after removing bandage, and 2-3 times per day afterward, wash with a gentle, non-scented, antibacterial soap to keep it clean and avoid potential infection. Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Avoid using a cloth towel, especially one that has been used, as they can hold bacteria and leave fibers on your healing tattoo.
Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion 3-5 times per day to keep your tattoo moisturized. Make sure the lotion is completely absorbed into the area, as excess can impede healing. Continue moisturizing until tattoo is no longer flaking, usually about 2-3 weeks.
Never touch your healing tattoo without washing your hands.
Do not pick, peel, or scratch any scabbing or hard layers. These are normal and picking them off can remove colour or damage the tattoo.

Long-term tattoo aftercare is just as important as short-term. The more you care about how you treat your skin, the longer your tattoo will look its best.

Your tattoos will lighten up after they have been fully healed. That's normal as the layers of skin are growing back over the ink and accepting it within your skin. To keep the tattoo from fading, always make sure to put on sunscreen when going outside, especially in the summer. SPF 45 or higher and sunscreen for children are always good options, or there are tattoo aftercare brands that make sun blocks designed for tattoos.

Always keep your tattoos moisturized, especially in areas prone to fading like hands, feet, elbows, etc. This will help keep the tattoo intact and less prone to fading over the years.

Wash your hands thoroughly prior to touching your piercing for any reason.
Clean your piercing twice a day with a saline solution. Spray the sterile saline on a cotton tip applicator (such as a Q-tip) and use a gentle twisting motion to remove debris and clean the area, as well as the jewelry.
Dry by gently patting with clean, disposable paper products. Cloth towels can harbor bacteria and snag on jewelry, causing injury.
Don’t twist, turn or otherwise touch your jewelry except what is necessary when cleaning.
Wear clean, comfortable, breathable clothing that protects your piercing while you sleep. Clean bedding regularly.
Avoid submerging the piercing in unhygienic bodies of water such as lakes, pools, hot tubs, etc.
Avoid all beauty and personal care products on or around the piercing including cosmetics, lotions, sprays, etc.

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