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CONTRA TATTOO
1030 N. Fulton St
Fresno, CA 93728
(559) 905-6566
Tattoo Aftercare Instructions
Follow these professional tattoo aftercare steps to ensure proper healing, prevent infection, and keep your tattoo looking its best.
Initial Tattoo Care
- Avoid unnecessary touching, scratching, or picking at the new tattoo to reduce the risk of infection.
- Always wash and dry your hands before and after handling a new tattoo.
- Keep your tattoo covered for at least two hours using a non-adherent bandage applied by your artist. This bandage is intended only to protect the area while traveling home and should be removed before it dries onto the skin.
Cleaning and Moisturizing
- After removing the bandage, gently wash your tattoo with an antibacterial soap using your fingertips only. DO NOT use a washcloth or scrubber. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel. Allow the tattoo to air dry for 10 minutes or longer if it appears moist.
- Apply a very small amount of Aquaphor or A&D ointment for the first 4–5 days (or until peeling begins), 2–3 times per day. Rub it completely into the skin so it does not appear slick or slimy.
- After the first 4–5 days, switch to a fragrance- and dye-free lotion (such as Cetaphil). Moisturize 5–6 times per day whenever the tattoo appears dry throughout the healing process.
Things to Avoid While Healing
- Do not soak your tattoo in pools, ocean water, baths, or hot tubs. Take short showers only.
- Avoid sunbeds, sunbathing, and direct sunlight until fully healed.
- Avoid gardening activities and contact with animals during the healing period.
- Do not scratch or pick at peeling or flaking skin.
Healing Timeline and Expectations
Most tattoos heal on the surface within 2–3 weeks. During the first few days, your tattoo may seep ink, blood, or plasma, which can stain clothing or bedding. Mild redness, itching, and peeling are normal parts of the healing process.
Long-Term Tattoo Care
Once healed, protect your tattoo from sun exposure by using a high-SPF sunscreen (SPF 45 or higher) to keep colors vibrant and prevent fading.
Please ensure that proper care is taken to avoid infection.
Tattoo Aftercare FAQs
How do I take care of a new tattoo?
A new tattoo should be treated like an open wound. Keep it clean, wash gently with antibacterial soap, apply a small amount of recommended ointment, and avoid soaking or sun exposure until fully healed. Following professional tattoo aftercare instructions helps prevent infection and protects your artwork.
How long does a tattoo take to heal?
Most tattoos take about 2–3 weeks to heal on the surface, but full healing beneath the skin can take several weeks longer. Proper tattoo aftercare during this time is essential for color retention and skin health.
What ointment should I use on my tattoo?
For the first 4–5 days, use a thin layer of Aquaphor or A&D ointment. Once peeling begins, switch to a fragrance- and dye-free lotion such as Cetaphil. Avoid over-applying, as too much moisture can slow the healing process.
Can I shower with a new tattoo?
Yes, short showers are allowed. Avoid soaking your tattoo in baths, pools, hot tubs, or ocean water until it is completely healed. Always gently pat dry after showering.
What should I avoid while my tattoo is healing?
Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, swimming, heavy sweating, gardening, and contact with animals. Do not scratch or pick at your tattoo, even if it begins to itch or peel.
Is redness or peeling normal?
Mild redness, swelling, itching, and peeling are normal during the tattoo healing process. However, excessive redness, swelling, pus, or pain may be signs of infection and should be evaluated by a medical professional.
How can I keep my tattoo looking bright after it heals?
Once healed, keep your tattoo moisturized and protected from the sun. Use a high-SPF sunscreen (SPF 45 or higher) whenever exposed to sunlight to maintain color vibrancy and prevent fading.
Where can I get professional tattoo aftercare advice in Fresno?
Contra Tattoo in Fresno, CA provides professional tattoo aftercare guidance for every client. If you have questions or concerns about your tattoo healing process, contact or visit our shop for expert advice.