Tattoo After Care
A Proven and Effective Tattoo Aftercare Guide
Getting a new tattoo is exciting, and taking care of it the right way ensures it heals well and looks its best. As a renowned tattoo studio in Northglenn, CO, Dreamscape Piercing and Tattoo focuses on quality, safety, and client satisfaction more than anything.
Following the steps below will help support proper healing and protect the artwork as it settles into your skin.
Your artist will have wrapped your new tattoo. Keep this wrap on until you get home. Once you’re able to clean your new tattoo, wash your hands with antibiotic soap. Then clean your tattoo using mild soap and water. Clean using your fingertips in a circular motion. Do not use a cloth because fibers may become trapped in your tattoo and cause an infection.
Moisturize your new tattoo with a fragrance-free, dye-free, alcohol free hand lotion. Use a light amount as if you were using it on your hands. You don’t want a shiny, greasy layer.
Repeat the wash and moisturize 2 to 3 times a day.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our artists. We will give you the right guidance for a safe healing journey.
DO NOT submerge your new tattoo in water. No hot tubs, swimming pools, hot springs, etc. You're fine to shower, just don’t let the water beat directly on your tattoo and make sure the water is much cooler if you take hot showers, as hot water can be damaging to the healing process.
CHANGE YOUR BEDDING. Especially if you have pets that sleep in your room or on your bed. Pet dandruff can be very bad for an open wound trying to heal. Also, for at least the first week, do not let your pets sleep with you. You don’t want to risk infection.
DO NOT USE Neosporin or A&D. These products can damage your tattoo, not help it.
Tattoo Derma Aftercare
If a tattoo derm product was applied after your session, leave it in place for about four days. This layer protects the skin and helps your tattoo begin healing safely without exposure to dirt, bacteria, or clothing friction.
When it’s time to remove the derm, take your time. Warm water will help loosen the adhesive, so the shower is the best place to do this. Gently lift a corner and use a warm, soapy washcloth to guide it away from the skin. Avoid pulling quickly or dry peeling, as this can irritate the healing tattoo.
Once the covering is removed, pat the tattoo dry with clean hands or let it air dry. Then apply a fragrance-free, dye-free, alcohol free lotion to keep the area moisturized. At this stage, your tattoo should already show signs of early healing, but it still needs consistent care.
Clean and moisturize every 2 ½ to 3 hours for the next week. Always wash your hands first with antibiotic soap before touching the tattoo. Use mild soap and your fingertips to clean gently in circular motions. Never use a washcloth or scrubber.
Apply a light layer of lotion each time. The skin should feel hydrated, not oily. Repeat washing and moisturizing two to three times daily for the best healing results.
If you have queries not mentioned here, please feel free to get in touch with us. We are always here to support you in getting safe and stunning tattoos you will be proud to show off.
Supplements to promote healing
Take 1000-3000mg vitamin c every day,
along with 60-120mg zinc to help promote healing