Aftercare

Proper aftercare is responsible for 70% of the final result. Poor care can seriously affect the quality, vibrancy, and longevity of your tattoo — especially with large color pieces. Please follow these instructions carefully.

Immediately After the Session

Your tattoo will be cleaned, treated with antiseptic, and covered with Tattoo Armour pads. These absorbent, non-adhesive pads are excellent for big color tattoos because they effectively soak up excess plasma, ink, and fluids without leaking, which helps preserve color saturation and reduces the risk of uneven healing.

While Using Tattoo Armour Pads (First 2–3 Days)

• Change the pad every 6–12 hours (or as needed if it becomes very saturated). You will receive enough pads for this.
• Secure the pad gently with skin-safe medical tape (such as Transpore or Micropore). Do not wrap too tightly — the skin needs to breathe.
• Avoid sweating: No sports, gym, saunas, hot baths, or direct sun exposure.
• Avoid alcohol for at least 5 days — it increases fluid secretion and can cause pigment loss.
• You may take short, lukewarm showers. Avoid letting hot water run directly on the pad for long periods.

Lymph/plasma buildup is completely normal, especially on large tattoos. The Tattoo Armour pad will absorb it. If the pad feels very full or uncomfortable, change it sooner.

How to Change the Pad

1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Remove the old pad and tape.
3. Gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap. Remove all residue, old ointment, and excess fluids. Do not rub.
4. Pat dry with a clean paper towel and let it air dry for a few minutes.
5. Apply a very thin layer of the provided healing ointment (tattoo butter or cream).
6. Place a fresh Tattoo Armour pad over the area and secure it with tape.

Repeat this process 2 times per day for the first 2–3 days.

After the Initial Pad Phase (From Day 3 Onward)

• Continue washing the tattoo 3–4 times a day with gentle soap and lukewarm water.
• Pat dry and apply a thin layer of ointment.
• Once the tattoo stops oozing and feels drier (usually after 3–5 days), switch to moisturizing 1–2 times daily with the same ointment or any hypoallergenic, fragrance-free cream (e.g. Bepanthen, CeraVe, or similar).
• Keep the area moisturized but never greasy — too much ointment can clog pores.

Important Healing Rules (During and After Healing)

• Do not scratch, rub, or pick at the tattoo.
• Let any peeling skin fall off naturally — never peel it.
• Avoid synthetic or tight clothing that can irritate the area.
• Limit intense physical activity for at least 10–14 days.
• Never let the tattoo dry out — dryness can lead to poor healing and scarring.
• Sun protection for life: Direct sunlight causes fading, color shifts (especially in vibrant tattoos), and can turn the ink brownish-green. Always use SPF 70+ sunscreen and/or UV-protective clothing.

Expected Healing Timeline

• First 3–5 days: Heavy plasma/ink release (absorbed by the pads).
• 1–2 weeks: Peeling and itching phase.
• Up to 1–6 months: Final color settling and skin smoothing. Continue moisturizing if the skin feels uneven.

If you notice signs of infection (excessive redness, swelling, pus, fever), contact me immediately.

Following these steps — especially with the Tattoo Armour system — gives the best chance for a clean, vibrant, long-lasting color tattoo with minimal touch-ups.

If you have any questions during the healing process, don’t hesitate to message me with photos. Take care of your new tattoo!