TATTOO AFTERCARE
Ultimate Guide to Tattoo Aftercare: Tips from Oly Anger Tattoo
Getting a new tattoo is an exciting experience, but ensuring it heals properly requires careful aftercare. At Oly Anger Tattoo in the Old Port of Montreal, we want your tattoo to look its best for years to come. Follow these detailed aftercare instructions to maintain the vibrancy and integrity of your new ink.
1. Arriving Home with Your New Tattoo
When you first get home, it’s essential to clean your hands thoroughly before touching your new tattoo. Carefully remove the plastic wrap covering your tattoo. It’s normal to see some blood, vaseline, and ink on the plastic. Here’s how to clean your tattoo properly:
- Wash with Lukewarm Water and Mild Soap: Use a fragrance-free, gentle soap to clean the area. Avoid hot water, as it can irritate the skin.
- Pat Dry: Gently pat the tattoo dry with a clean paper towel and let it air dry. Avoid using cloth towels which might harbor bacteria.
- Clothing Caution: Avoid wearing white clothes initially as some ink and blood may seep out. Be cautious with your bed sheets as well.
2. The First Week
The first week is crucial for your tattoo’s healing process. Follow these steps to ensure optimal care:
- Avoid Hot Showers: Hot water can dilate pores, causing ink to leach out and expand under the skin. Stick to lukewarm showers.
- Limit Exposure to Dust and Pet Hair: These can cause infections. Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo.
- No Soaking: Avoid baths, swimming pools, lakes, and saunas to prevent soaking the tattoo.
- Apply Hustle Butter: Once or twice daily, apply a thin layer of Hustle Butter, specifically designed for tattoo aftercare. Ensure your hands are clean before application.
3. During the Healing Process
Throughout the healing process, which can take 4-6 weeks, it’s vital to maintain these practices:
- Peeling and Scabbing: Your tattoo will peel and form scabs. Do not pick or pull at them; they will fall off naturally.
- Sun and UV Exposure: Avoid exposing your tattoo to the sun and UV rays. These can fade the ink and cause damage.
- Moisturize: Apply a thin layer of fragrance-free lotion once or twice daily to keep the tattoo hydrated. Cold compresses or cold water can help alleviate itching.
4. Touch-Ups
Despite careful aftercare, small imperfections might occur if a scab is accidentally removed. Touch-ups are guaranteed within six months of your tattoo date, except for areas like hands, feet, and the inside of lips. Contact your artist for more details.
Additional Tips:
- If a piece of clothing or bed sheet sticks to your tattoo, wet the fabric to remove it gently without tearing the scab.
- If your tattoo gets exposed to dirt, dust, or animal hair, wash your hands and clean the tattoo immediately with lukewarm water and mild soap.
- For the rest of your life, protect your tattoo from UV rays by applying sunscreen.
SINCE 2009
OLY ANGER TATTOO
For more details, visit Oly Anger Tattoo or contact us directly with any questions. Taking proper care of your tattoo ensures it remains a beautiful work of art for years to come.