Get Rested: Make sure you’re well-rested before your appointment. This helps you with pain tolerance and overall energy levels during the session.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water the day before and the day of your tattoo appointment. This helps keep your skin in optimal condition and makes the tattoo process smoother.
Avoid Alcohol & Blood-Thinners: Refrain from consuming alcohol, caffeine, or any blood-thinning medications (like aspirin) for at least 24 hours before your session. These can increase bleeding, which may affect the quality of your tattoo.
Eat a Good Meal: Have a nutritious meal before your session. This helps with blood sugar levels and can prevent you from feeling light-headed or faint during your appointment.
Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose loose, comfortable clothes that allow easy access to the area you're getting tattooed. If you're getting tattooed on your arm, for example, make sure your shirt can be easily rolled up or removed.
Shave the Area (if necessary): We’ll typically shave the area for you, but if you'd prefer, you can shave the tattoo area yourself beforehand. This ensures a clean surface for the tattoo.

Right After Your Tattoo:

Leave the Bandage On: After your session, we will apply a second skin membrane, such as Saniderm or Tegaderm, to protect your tattoo. This type of film acts as a breathable barrier and should stay on for 2-4 days (or as directed by your artist). Do not remove it prematurely as it helps protect the tattoo from dirt, bacteria, and friction while healing.
Don't Touch the Tattoo: Avoid touching your tattoo with unclean hands. If you must touch it, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before doing so.
First Cleaning: After removing the skin film, wash the tattoo gently with lukewarm water and unscented, mild soap. Be gentle – no scrubbing! Pat it dry using a clean towel or let it air dry.
Apply a Thin Layer of Aftercare Ointment: Once the tattoo is dry, apply a thin layer of a fragrance-free ointment or a tattoo-specific healing balm. Avoid thick applications that can suffocate the skin and trap too much moisture.

During the Healing Process:

Moisturize Regularly: Continue to apply a thin layer of aftercare ointment or unscented lotion for the first 2-3 weeks. Make sure you’re moisturizing enough to keep the tattoo hydrated but not too much to prevent the skin from breathing.
Avoid Scratching or Picking: As the tattoo heals, you may experience flaking or peeling. Do not scratch, pick, or peel off any scabs – this can cause damage to the tattoo and may lead to scarring.
Wear Loose Clothing: If your tattoo is in an area that might rub against clothing, wear loose-fitting clothes to minimize friction. Tight clothing can irritate the tattoo and extend the healing time.
Stay Away from Sun Exposure: Keep your tattoo out of the sun for at least 3-4 weeks. UV rays can fade the tattoo and harm the healing skin. Once healed, always use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to protect your tattoo from fading over time.
No Swimming or Soaking: Do not submerge your tattoo in water (e.g., swimming pools, hot tubs, or baths) for at least 2-3 weeks. Showers are fine, but avoid soaking your tattoo.
No Heavy Exercise: Refrain from strenuous physical activity (such as intense workouts or sports) during the first week to avoid sweating and rubbing the tattoo.

Peeling and Itching Are Normal: It’s completely normal for your tattoo to peel and itch during the healing process. Don’t scratch! Use a gentle lotion to soothe the skin instead.
Healing Time: Tattoos generally take about 2-3 weeks to heal on the surface, but deeper layers of skin may take up to 6 weeks to fully heal.

Long-Term Care:

Keep Moisturizing: Even after your tattoo has healed, continue moisturizing the area to keep your skin healthy and to preserve the vibrancy of your tattoo.
Protect from Sun Damage: Always protect your tattoo from the sun. Apply sunscreen to prevent fading and protect your skin from UV rays.