Aftercare
Guide
Your new tattoo or piercing is an investment. Protect it with proper aftercare. Follow these steps to keep your art clean, healing properly, and looking Official for life.
Healing
Methods
Traditional
Wear a bandage for approximately an hour then remove it. Then, wash your tattoo with antibacterial soap and warm water. Pat dry and apply unscented lotion sparingly.
Keep tattoo clean. Wash at least twice daily, with warm water and antibacterial soap. Use unscented lotion to prevent excessive dryness.
Saniderm
After your artist applies the clear bandage, it should be left on for 3-5 days. It is normal to see a collection of blood and fluids under the bandage.
Remove the bandage in the shower SLOWLY and GENTLY under warm water to loosen the adhesive.
Piercings
Wash your hands throughly before cleaning or touching your piercing every time.
Spray your piercing with sterile saline solution 3-5 times per day.
Day-By-Day Healing Stages
The Weeping Stage
Expect redness, swelling, and oozing of clear fluid mixed with excess ink. This is a natural immune response. Keep the area clean, follow your artist's washing instructions, and avoid tight clothing.
The Itchy & Peeling Stage
Your tattoo will begin to dry out and peel, similar to a mild sunburn. It will become very itchy. Do not scratch, pick, or peel the skin. Apply a very light layer of approved unscented moisturizer to relieve the itch.
Healing
Rules
Do's
- ✓Wash your hands before touching your tattoo or piercing.
- ✓Keep the area clean and dry between washes.
- ✓Wear loose, breathable clothing over the tattooed area.
- ✓Stay hydrated and eat well to support healing.
- ✓Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion as directed.
- ✓Contact the shop if you notice signs of infection.
Don'ts
- ✕Do not scratch, pick, or peel healing skin.
- ✕Do not submerge in water (baths, pools, oceans) until healed.
- ✕Do not expose to direct sunlight or tanning beds.
- ✕Do not use scented soaps, lotions, or alcohol-based products.
- ✕Do not drink alcohol heavily before or during healing.
- ✕Do not remove Saniderm early unless instructed.
Officially
Numb
Fast-acting, long-lasting numbing cream powered by 10% Lidocaine — the maximum strength available without a prescription. Get tattooed, pierced, or waxed completely pain-free for up to 5 hours.
Make It
Official
Ready for your next tattoo or piercing? Book with an Official or walk in 24/7.