How to take care of your new tattoo
Aftercare
Proper tattoo aftercare is essential for optimal healing and long-lasting results. You’ll find detailed instructions below – please follow them carefully to ensure the best results. If you have any questions or need guidance, don’t hesitate to contact us – we’re here to help.
For perfect results
Useful tips
Step 1
Leave the bandage on for 1 to 4 hours (follow your artist's recommendation, they know your tattoo best) to prevent contamination.
Step 2
With clean hands, remove the bandage and gently wash with warm water and a mild antibacterial or fragrance-free soap. Remove all traces of blood and plasma. Do not use a washcloth to wash your tattoo. Dry the tattoo with a soft, clean paper towel, then let it air dry. Do not rub it until it is dry. Do not use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to clean your tattoo, as these will dry out the skin.
Step 3
Cover the tattoo with a very thin layer of moisturizer, such as Outlaw Aftercare (if you have allergies, inform your tattoo artist). Do not use Vaseline or pure cosmetic petroleum jelly, as these can damage your tattoo and prolong the healing process.
Step 4
Once the initial tattoo cover has peeled off, do not cover the tattoo for the entire healing process. The tattoo needs to be exposed to air to heal.
Step 5
For the first week, wash your tattoo at least twice a day. Apply Outlaw Aftercare two to three times a day, especially when your tattoo feels dry and/or itchy. Keeping your tattoo moisturized will help minimize flaking or peeling, which will reduce the risk of fading.
Recommendations
Essential precautions
KEEP YOUR TATTOO DRY
Do not swim, soak in a hot tub, or bathe for 2 weeks after getting your tattoo. Chemicals, such as chlorine, can cause your tattoo to fade and/or become infected. Soaking your tattoo in water can also cause the scab to come off more quickly, which can wash away some of the ink.
DO NOT EXPOSE YOURSELF TO THE SUN
Avoid sun exposure for at least two weeks after getting your tattoo to allow it to heal. After 2 weeks, you can go out in the sun or go to a tanning salon, as long as you apply a light layer of sunscreen (SPF 25 or higher) over the tattoo.
DO NOT SCRATCH OR BREAK THE FORMED SCABS
Don't scratch or pick at the scabs! Just like any other wound on your skin, your tattoo will itch during the healing process. Scratching or touching the scab will cause it to come off, possibly along with some of the tattoo color.
VERIFY THE PRODUCTS
The general rule for skin care products is this: If it's safe for a baby, it's safe for a tattoo. Always avoid soaps and lotions that contain perfume and lanolin in the ingredient list.