Day One * Keep your bandage on for as long as your artists instructs you to. * Only touch the tattoo very gently. * Wear loose clothing that won’t rub on the tattoo. * Wash your hands thoroughly, and gently clean your tattoo. * Use your hands -- avoid sponges or loofahs that might rub your skin too harshly. * Use hypoallergenic, unscented soap * Don’t let the tap water run directly onto your new tattoo; use your hands to gently scoop water onto the area. * Let the tattoo air dry; don’t rub it with a towel. * After washing, gently pat the tattoo with a paper towel, and then let it air dry for up to one hour. * Apply a thin layer of anti-bacterial ointment 3-4 times per day for the first 3-5 days * Other than washing the tattoo, do not get it wet (no swimming!) * Some redness, swelling, and discomfort is normal. * Consult a doctor if you experience the following symptoms: * Excessive drainage * Excessive bleeding * Excessive pain * Excessive swelling * Skin that is hot to touch * A temperature of higher than 101 degrees F Week One * Wash your tattoo, following the instructions above, at least daily, more if you are in a hot or dirty environment. * Scabs will form on the tattoo, and it may be itchy or dry. Resist the temptation to scratch it or pick the scabs. Let your skin heal naturally. * Wash your hands before touching the tattoo. * Moisturize the tattoo using fragrance-free lotion, as needed. * Sun and prolonged time in water can damage your tattoo’s appearance, so cover your tattoo for the first 4 weeks to keep it out of direct sunlight. * Avoid swimming or soaking in a bathtub for the first few weeks. * In the first week, minor swelling and redness, as well as itching, are normal. Week Two * Be particularly careful when washing your tattoo this week, as the peeling scabs may damage the tattoo. * Add additional moisturizer to help with the itching. * Wash your hands before touching the tattoo. * Protect your tattoo from the sun and from prolonged water exposure. Week Three * Continue applying moisturizer. * Wash your hands before touching the tattoo. * Protect your tattoo from the sun and from prolonged water exposure. Week Four * Once your tattoo has healed, it is alright to expose it to the sun. Be sure to apply sunscreen, as the skin may still be tender. * Continue to moisturize regularly to keep your tattoo looking its best.