Take Care of Your New Tattoo

1. 
   
2. (Keep the bandage on the tattoo for at least two hours after the work is complete (or longer, depending on the tattoo artist's instructions).
3. Step2

   Remove the bandage very carefully and throw it away. This allows your skin to breathe and begin the healing process. Do not rebandage the tattoo.

4. Step3

   Put a drop of mild antibiotic soap on your hand and lightly wash the tattoo. Gently pat it dry with a washcloth (not a paper towel) taking care not to rub it.

5. Step4

   Dab an over-the-counter water- or petroleum-based ointment on the cleaned area. Do not use an ointment that contains zinc as it may cause an adverse reaction.

6. Step5

   Continue to lightly apply antibiotic ointment to your tattooed skin for the first few days, then switch to a plain skin lotion that is free of dye, perfume, lanolin, Vitamin E, aloe or alcohol.

7. Step6

   Expose your healing skin to air as much as possible but avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.

8. Step7

   Avoid getting a lot of water on your new tattoo - showers are OK, but noswimming or baths for a few weeks.