Leave your bandage on for at least 4–8 hours.

Thoroughly wash your hands before removing your bandage.

Remember: Your tattoo is an open wound — treat it as such.

Remove the bandage and gently wash your tattoo using warm water and a liquid, fragrance-free soap (such as Gold Dial).

Gently apply a thin layer of Aquaphor Healing Ointment.

Continue applying Aquaphor until your tattoo has finished flaking (approximately 1 week).

Once flaking has stopped, begin using an unscented lotion (such as Aveeno, Eucerin, or Lubriderm).

Wash and apply lotion to your tattoo 2–4 times per day until it is fully healed (approximately 2 weeks).

Do NOT apply excessive amounts of lotion or ointment.

Do NOT pick or scratch your healing tattoo.

Do NOT touch your tattoo with dirty hands or allow others to touch it.

Do NOT allow your tattoo to rub against unclean surfaces or objects.

Do NOT allow your tattoo to come into contact with any foreign bodily fluids.

Do NOT allow your tattoo to completely dry out.

Do NOT soak your tattoo in liquids for extended periods of time.

Do NOT use hot tubs, take baths, or go swimming while your tattoo is healing.

Do NOT allow clothing, bedding, or blankets to stick to your tattoo.

Do NOT apply Neosporin, Bacitracin, or similar ointments. These products can pull the ink out.

Do NOT expose your tattoo to the sun while it is healing.

Infections are rare but can occur. If you believe you have an infection, contact a physician immediately.

Wear loose-fitting clothing over your healing tattoo.

After your tattoo has healed, apply sunscreen to prevent fading when exposed to the sun.