We welcome walk-ins and also offer appointments for your convenience!
We welcome walk-ins and also offer appointments for your convenience!
Whether you leave your session wrapped in Saniderm, Tegaderm, or a traditional bandage, proper care for your new tattoo is essential to achieve the best results. Your tattoo artist will explain their preferred method before you leave. Always follow their specific instructions, as the healing process can vary based on the tattoo's style, placement, and your individual skin type.
Keep the bandage on for as long as your tattoo artist recommends, which is typically up to 3-5 days. It's normal to notice some fluid and ink collecting under the wrap; as long as the tattoo remains sealed, it is safe. Avoid picking, peeling, or poking at the bandage. You can shower with the bandage on, but be sure to avoid soaking in tubs or swimming pools. When it's time to remove the bandage, do so gently under warm water, peeling it back slowly.
Carefully peel the bandage by pulling it slowly from the edge back over itself, avoiding any upward pulling. After removal, wash the area with unscented, antibacterial soap (preferably Dial), pat dry, and apply a non-scented lotion.
After removing the bandage, make sure to follow the washing instructions 3-4 times a day and apply small amounts of non-scented lotion.
Keep the bandage on as instructed—usually for a few hours. Before removing the wrap and touching your tattoo, ensure you wash your hands thoroughly. Gently cleanse the area with lukewarm water and an unscented, antibacterial soap, preferably Dial. After washing, pat the area dry with a clean paper towel or allow it to air dry. If advised, apply a thin layer of artist-recommended ointment or lotion to keep your tattoo clean and moisturized. Remember to keep your tattoo free from friction as well. After you remove the bandage, follow the washing instructions 1-2 times a day and apply small amounts of non-scented lotions to maintain its appearance.
🧴 Tattoo-Safe Lotions (Fragrance-Free & Non-Greasy)
Start using lotion once your tattoo starts to feel tight or flaky—usually around day 3–5. Avoid using petrolium-based, oil-based, or fragranced products. EVEN IF THEY SAY THEY ARE FOR TATTOOS. Keep area hydrated but do not over-use lotion on a fresh tattoo. A thin layer is all you need.
🧼 Tattoo-Safe Soaps (Unscented & Gentle)
Use these to wash your tattoo 1-2 times a day OR if the tattoo gets sweaty or dirty. Remember to wash with just your hands and lukewarm water. No loofahs, no washcloths.
Avoid direct sunlight and tanning to protect your skin. Refrain from soaking in water, whether in pools, baths, or hot tubs. Steer clear of scented lotions, scrubs, and harsh cleansers to ensure your skin remains healthy. Remember, no scratching or picking is allowed...even if it itches.
Healing is a personal journey and isn’t one-size-fits-all. If anything feels off or you’re unsure about a specific aspect, don’t hesitate to reach out to your artist directly as they’ll provide guidance tailored to your unique piece and how your body is responding.
It’s normal to experience some redness, tenderness, and mild swelling after getting a tattoo. However, you should reach out to your artist or a medical professional if you notice any of the following signs:
Tattoos can heal differently based on your skin type, tattoo placement, and how well you care for them. It’s normal for some tattoos to experience minor fading or patchiness. If you believe your tattoo needs a touch-up, reach out to your artist directly. Most of our talented Pensacola-based artists provide free or discounted touch-ups within a specific time frame.
Keep It Clean and Let It Shine.
Whether it’s your first piercing or your tenth, proper aftercare is essential for keeping your new jewelry looking great and ensuring it heals well. Each piercer has slightly different preferences based on the location and style of your piercing, so always make sure to follow the instructions your piercer provides before you leave the studio.
Before touching your piercing, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly. Clean the area using a sterile saline solution or the recommended aftercare product from your piercer. Gently dab the area with a clean gauze or paper towel, avoiding cotton balls or any materials that might leave fibers behind. During the healing process, do not twist, turn, or remove your jewelry unless you have been specifically instructed to do so.
✅ Do: Keep your bedding and towels clean to promote healing. Wear loose, clean clothing around body piercings to avoid irritation. Be gentle when washing your face, brushing your teeth, or changing clothes to protect your new piercings.
❌ Don’t: Don’t touch your piercing unless you’re cleaning it to prevent infection. Don’t use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh cleansers, as these can irritate the area. Don’t swim in pools, hot tubs, lakes, or oceans while healing to avoid complications. Don’t sleep directly on new ear or facial piercings to ensure proper healing.
Healing times for piercings can vary based on the location of the piercing and your individual body chemistry. Your piercer will provide guidance on what to expect during the healing process and how to identify when it's fully healed. While some piercings may heal in just a few weeks, others could take several months.
NeilMed and WoundWash are the ONLY saline recommendations for piercings.
Do NOT use contact solutions, saline meant for sinuses, or a salt-water mix you make yourself.
Do NOT use soap unless the area becomes dirty, in which case use an unscented, gentle soap and lukewarm water.
Healing isn’t always a straightforward journey. If something feels off or you simply seek peace of mind, don’t hesitate to reach out to your piercer directly. They are here to support and guide you through every step of the process.
Some redness, tenderness, and swelling are normal at first. However, you should contact your piercer or a healthcare provider if you notice any of the following symptoms: severe or increasing pain, redness, or warmth; thick yellow or green discharge; an unusual odor; or fever and chills.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.