Tattoo Aftercare
Tattoo aftercare is crucial because it helps prevent infections and reduces the risk of scarring. Following proper care steps such as using a dressing for a few days, washing the area twice daily, moisturizing several times, and avoiding sun exposure ensures the tattoo heals correctly. These practices are essential to maintain the tattoo's appearance and promote healthy skin recovery.
When you get home from your tattoo appointment, wash your tattoo with Dial soap or any non-scented anti-bacterial soap, pat dry with a clean paper towel, and moisturize with a non-scented lotion or a soothing aftercare gel. Mad Rabbit products are available to purchase at Kapwa Tattoo Studio.
Continue to wash your tattoo twice a day until it is healed. Tattoos typically take one to two weeks to heal. Ensure to pat your tattoo dry before applying any lotion or ointment.
Without Medical-grade Adhesive
Important note: If you notice any signs of irritation or abnormal reaction to the adhesive, immediately remove it in the shower or under running warm water.
Keep the medical-grade adhesive on or "second skin" for 5 days. On the 5th day, slowly remove the adhesive in the shower or under running warm water. Wash the area with Dial soap or any non-scented anti-bacterial soap, pat your tattoo dry with a clean paper towel, and moisturize it with a non-scented lotion or a soothing aftercare gel. Hustle Butter products are available to purchase at Kapwa Tattoo Studio.
Continue to wash your tattoo twice a day until it is healed. Tattoos typically take one to two weeks to heal. Ensure to pat your tattoo dry before applying any lotion or ointment.
With Medical-grade Adhesive
No, avoid swimming in the ocean, pools, or freshwater for at least 2-3 weeks. Open waters contain bacteria that can lead to infections, and prolonged soaking can disrupt the healing process.
Keep your fresh tattoo covered with loose clothing for at least 2-3 weeks. After it's fully healed, apply a high-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+), as UV rays can fade the ink over time.
Yes, but be cautious. Air travel can expose your tattoo to bacteria, swelling, and dehydration. Make sure to wear loose clothing to prevent irritation. Bring fragrance-free lotion to keep your tattoo hydrated. Avoid resting your fresh tattoo directly on airplane seats. If traveling to a dry climate, apply moisturizer frequently.
If you take blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, warfarin, Plavix, Eliquis, Xarelto), inform your artist before your appointment. Blood thinners can increase bleeding and bruising, potentially affecting the ink’s ability to settle properly.
t depends on the medication. Always inform your artist beforehand.
Antibiotics: If you are on antibiotics for an active infection, wait until you finish your course and fully recover before getting tattooed. Being sick can weaken healing.
Steroids (e.g., prednisone, cortisone, dexamethasone): Long-term steroid use can thin the skin, slow healing, and increase infection risk. Consult your doctor before getting a tattoo.Yes, you can hike after getting a tattoo, but take precautions. Avoid excessive sweating for 3-5 days and keep the tattoo covered with loose, breathable clothing. Do not apply sunscreen on a fresh tattoo; instead, protect it with fabric. Avoid friction from backpacks or tight gear. Stay hydrated and clean the tattoo immediately after hiking to prevent infection. For long or strenuous hikes, wait at least a week.
Kapwa Tattoo Artists do not recommend using numbing cream as it can affect the healing process. Instead, we provide Bactine and Numb520 Spray during the session to ensure a more comfortable tattoo experience.
If you apply numbing cream before your appointment, it may interfere with the tattooing process, and you could be rescheduled—resulting in the loss of your security deposit. Please consult with your artist before using any topical anesthetics.
It depends on your specific allergies. If you have sensitive skin, eczema, or a history of allergic reactions, consult your artist and consider doing a patch test before getting tattooed.
Yes! Just inform your artist before your appointment so they can use latex-free gloves and bandages.
If you experience persistent redness, itching, or swelling beyond normal healing, contact your artist or a doctor. Mild irritation can be treated with antihistamines or topical creams, but severe reactions may require medical attention.
If you are prone to keloids, getting a tattoo comes with risks. Keloids are raised, thickened scars that form when the skin heals aggressively. Tattooing can trigger keloid formation, especially in areas prone to scarring, such as the chest, shoulders, and upper arms.
Things to Consider:
Tattoo Placement Matters – Some areas scar more easily than others. Consult with your artist about placement.
Healing Process is Key – Proper aftercare can help minimize irritation and excessive scar tissue formation.
Patch Test First – Consider getting a small test tattoo in an area less prone to keloids.
Consult a Dermatologist – If you have a history of keloids, a medical professional can advise on your risk level.
Avoid direct sunlight for at least three to four weeks, or 24 hours at a minimum. Sunlight can cause blistering, sunburn, fading, discoloration, and UV damage.
Sunlight
Avoid swimming, soaking, or being in pools, hot tubs, rivers, or lakes until the tattoo is fully healed.
Water
After the first few days, your tattoo may get itchy or scab over. Don't pick or scratch, as this can remove pigment and prevent proper healing. Instead, keep the area moisturized and the scabs will fall off on their own.
Scratching
Avoid wearing tight clothing can cause friction and irritation, and can also trap sweat.
Tight Clothing
Although moisturizing is important, too much can cause infection. Apply lotion at regular intervals, but wait for it to absorb before applying another layer.
Over-moisturizing
Avoid heavy exercise for 48 hours or any activity that causes friction or makes you sweat a lot.