Congratulations on your new tattoo from N Square Tattoos! Proper aftercare is essential to ensure your tattoo heals beautifully and remains vibrant for years to come. Follow these guidelines to take care of your tattoo:

Initial Care (First Few Hours)

1. Leave the Bandage On: Your tattoo artist will cover your tattoo with a bandage to protect it from dirt and bacteria. Leave this bandage on for at least 2-4 hours or as advised by your artist.

2. Wash Your Hands: Before touching your tattoo, wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap.

3. Remove the Bandage: Carefully remove the bandage to avoid pulling on the skin. If the bandage sticks, gently moisten it with water to ease removal.

4. Cleanse the Tattoo: Wash your tattoo gently with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Use your clean hands to remove any excess ink, blood, or plasma. Avoid using a washcloth or sponge.

5. Pat Dry: Gently pat your tattoo dry with a clean, soft towel. Do not rub or scrub the tattoo.

Ongoing Care (First 2 Weeks)

1. Apply Moisturizer: After drying, apply a thin layer of fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer or tattoo-specific aftercare product recommended by your artist. Repeat this 2-3 times a day, ensuring your tattoo stays hydrated.

2. Avoid Sun Exposure: Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight and tanning beds during the healing process. Sun exposure can fade colors and increase the risk of infection.

3. Avoid Swimming: Refrain from swimming in pools, hot tubs, or natural bodies of water until your tattoo is fully healed. Submerging your tattoo can introduce bacteria and prolong healing.

4. Avoid Scratching or Picking: Itching is normal during the healing process, but resist the urge to scratch or pick at your tattoo. Instead, gently pat or slap the itchy area.

5. Wear Loose Clothing: Choose clothing that won’t rub against your tattoo, especially during the first few days. Loose, breathable fabrics are ideal.

6. Monitor for Signs of Infection: Keep an eye on your tattoo for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, pain, or discharge. If you suspect an infection, contact your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional immediately.

Long-Term Care

1. Keep Your Tattoo Moisturized: Even after your tattoo is healed, continue to moisturize regularly to maintain its vibrancy and protect the skin.

2. Use Sunscreen: Protect your tattoo from fading by applying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher whenever it’s exposed to the sun.

3. Consult Your Artist: If you have any concerns or questions about your tattoo’s healing process or long-term care, don’t hesitate to reach out to your tattoo artist for guidance.