Tattoo AfterCare

Fundamental Tattoo Aftercare Steps

At Dr. Q Art Studio, we believe that the care you take after your tattoo session is just as important as the artwork itself. The first few weeks are crucial to ensure proper healing and to preserve the richness, detail, and vibrancy of your tattoo — especially one as boldly crafted and thoughtfully placed as the piece you’ve received from us.

To elevate your healing experience, we proudly offer on-site support from our licensed esthetician, who specializes in clinical skin care and medical-grade products. With a background in medical spa environments, she ensures that your aftercare is not only safe and effective, but also tailored to support optimal skin recovery.

Please follow the instructions below to protect your investment and support a flawless healing process:

First 24 Hours – With Second Skin

Your tattoo will be covered with a sterile second skin film immediately after your session.
Do not remove, puncture, or tamper with the film for the first 24 hours.
This breathable barrier protects your fresh tattoo from bacteria and friction while your skin begins to heal.

After 24 Hours – Remove & Clean

Gently remove the second skin while in a warm shower, peeling parallel to the skin, slowly from the edges.
Wash your tattoo with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free, antibacterial soap.
Pat dry with a clean paper towel — do not rub.

Days 2–14 – Healing & Moisturizing

Keep your tattoo clean and lightly moisturized.
Apply a thin layer of a tattoo-safe, fragrance-free moisturizer 2–3 times a day.

Avoid heavy creams or petroleum-based products that may clog pores.

Contact Us If:

  • You notice excessive redness, swelling, heat, pus, or any signs of infection.

  • You have questions about your healing process.

  • You would like to schedule a complimentary follow-up.

Long-Term Care

Once healed, apply SPF 30 or higher sunscreen to protect the tattoo and preserve vibrancy.
Keep your skin hydrated to maintain the richness, depth, and detail of your tattoo for years to come.

Tattoo Aftercare DOS

  • Always wash your hands before touching your tattoo.

  • Wear loose-fitting clothing at night to avoid ink setting on your bedding (if the tattoo is on your back, sleep on your stomach for a few days and vice versa).

  • When showering, use lukewarm water to preserve skin moisture and avoid dryness. Hot water strips oils and causes redness; cold water may not cleanse well. Choose a comfortable, moderate temperature.

  • If redness appears around the second skin, remove it immediately. Gently wash the tattoo with mild soap and lukewarm water, then pat dry. Continue healing without a second skin, keeping the tattoo clean and moisturized.

  • Irritation is normal, but if it persists past 2 or 4 weeks see your artist for advice (if you experience serious infections or reactions, seek the help of a medical professional and alert your tattoo artist).

  • Apply sunblock liberally to avoid getting a sunburn and potentially damaging your tattoo.

Tattoo Aftercare DON'TS

  • Do not scratch or pick at your tattoo (if it itches and you must have relief, lightly slap it with the flat of your hand but do your best to avoid all contact whatsoever).

  • Do not use petroleum jelly products like Aquaphor, Vaseline, or Neosporin to moisturize your skin (these smother the tattoo, locking in moisture, preventing breathing, and even pulling ink out).

  • Do not use anti-bacterial and medicated ointments. (products like A&D are petroleum jelly based and will leach ink out of your skin).

  • Do not use Aloe Vera (it heals the skin too fast and doesn’t keep it moist).

  • During the healing process, Do not do hard exercise or use saunas and steam baths (sweating increasing the risk of both infection and leaching).