Michigan Department of Community Health
Aftercare Instructions for Tattoo
Approximate Healing Time: Two to four (2-4) weeks
Supplies Needed: Antibacterial soap, antibiotic ointment, mild skin lotion
Aftercare Instructions: Keep your new tattoo bandaged for approximately two (2) hours. Then carefully remove bandage and wash entire area with mild soap and cool water. Dry the area, and re-apply an antibiotic ointment. Use only a very thin coating and continue to re-apply it two-four (2-4) times daily for at least three (3) days. Do not rebandage the tattoo, as it could stick to the bandage and damage can occur.
Additional Considerations: Avoid sunburn, salt or chlorine water, or hot tubs until your tattoo is completely healed. In the event mild scabbing occurs, do not pick at or attempt to “wash off” the scab. Allow it to do so by itself. You may apply a mild skin lotion to keep “flaking” to a minimum.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact the body art facility where your tattoo was performed. In addition, you should seek medical attention if the tattoo site becomes infected or painful, or if you develop a fever shortly after being tattooed.
Supplies Needed: Antibacterial soap, antibiotic ointment, mild skin lotion
Aftercare Instructions: Keep your new tattoo bandaged for approximately two (2) hours. Then carefully remove bandage and wash entire area with mild soap and cool water. Dry the area, and re-apply an antibiotic ointment. Use only a very thin coating and continue to re-apply it two-four (2-4) times daily for at least three (3) days. Do not rebandage the tattoo, as it could stick to the bandage and damage can occur.
Additional Considerations: Avoid sunburn, salt or chlorine water, or hot tubs until your tattoo is completely healed. In the event mild scabbing occurs, do not pick at or attempt to “wash off” the scab. Allow it to do so by itself. You may apply a mild skin lotion to keep “flaking” to a minimum.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact the body art facility where your tattoo was performed. In addition, you should seek medical attention if the tattoo site becomes infected or painful, or if you develop a fever shortly after being tattooed.
