Keep it covered
Leave the dressing in place for the amount of time your artist recommends. Different bandages require different removal instructions.
Protect Your New Tattoo
Tattoo Aftercare
A fresh tattoo is an open wound. Gentle cleaning, light moisture, and protection from friction, soaking, and sun help it heal well.
Start Clean
Wash your hands before every step.
Clean hands help protect your fresh tattoo while you remove the dressing, wash the area, dry it, or apply an approved aftercare product.
Use soap and water, dry your hands thoroughly, and avoid touching the tattoo except when completing the care routine your artist gave you.
Your Artist’s Instructions Come First
Start with the dressing you received.
Before you leave the studio, your artist will explain when and how to remove your bandage. Traditional wraps and adhesive healing films are cared for differently, so follow the instructions given for your specific dressing.
If it leaks, rolls up, causes a reaction, or comes off early, contact the shop for guidance.
Daily Care
Keep the routine simple.
Wash gently
With clean hands, wash the tattoo using lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Do not scrub or use a washcloth.
Dry carefully
Rinse completely, then pat the area dry with a clean paper towel. Allow it to air dry briefly before applying any product.
Moisturize lightly
Use only a very thin layer of the fragrance-free moisturizer or aftercare product recommended by your artist. More is not better.
During Healing
Use a light touch and let your skin do the work.
Mild tenderness, redness, warmth, and a small amount of clear or ink-colored fluid can occur early in healing. Flaking and itching are also common as the surface settles.
- Apply only a very thin layer of the product your artist recommends.
- Do not scratch, pick, peel, or shave over the tattoo.
- Wear clean, loose clothing that does not rub the area.
- Keep bedding clean and prevent pets from contacting the tattoo.
Avoid While Healing
Protect it from irritation.
- No swimming, hot tubs, baths, or unnecessary soaking.
- Avoid direct sunlight and tanning beds.
- Limit workouts or activities that create heavy friction, stretching, or contamination at the placement.
- Do not re-bandage the tattoo unless your artist specifically tells you to.
Products to Avoid
Keep harsh products away.
Do not use alcohol, peroxide, antibiotic ointment, scented lotion, or exfoliating products unless a qualified clinician directs you.
Long-Term Care
Keep healed work looking its best.
Once the tattoo is completely healed, moisturize as needed and use broad-spectrum sunscreen when the area is exposed. Sun protection helps preserve contrast and color over time.
When to contact us or seek medical care
Contact Rising Phoenix if you are unsure about your bandage, products, or normal healing. Seek prompt medical care for worsening or spreading redness, severe pain, fever, red streaks, foul odor, pus-like drainage, or signs of a serious allergic reaction. This guide is educational and does not replace medical advice.
Ready when you are
Start with a conversation.
Visit the shop, call us, or reserve an appointment online.
From bold custom pieces to subtle piercings, our experienced artists are here to bring your vision to life with precision and care.