Congratulations, your tattoo is now complete! We've done our job, it's now time for you to do yours. Following our suggested instructions will speed up the healing process and will result in a crisp, clean, vibrant tattoo. Nearly all complications are due to poor aftercare.
Once your tattoo experience at Graceland Tattoo is complete, the artist will dress the area before you leave the studio. Keep in mind, the application of a tattoo is considered similar to a "minor surgery".
We recommend you leave the dressing on for 2-12 hours, depending on the environment you are in.
Remove the dressing. If the dressing sticks to the skin, don't worry, wet the area down withCOOL water. You will notice the dressing will begin to come off. Continue to wet the dressing until it falls off easily.
Wash the site gently but thoroughly with liquid antibacterial soap and warm water(DO NOT SCRUB). Use a soap that is fragrance free and without dyes i.e.. Dial antibacterial. Rinse thoroughly and then do one final rinse with cold water.
Gently pat the area dry using a fresh paper towel, and allow 25 minutes to air dry.
Next, apply an EXTREMELY thin layer of suggested ointment 2-3 times per day for the first 2 days. On the third day substitute ointment with frangrance/aloe free lotion. Your tattoo should NEVER look gooey, wet, or slimey.
Always wash your tattoo prior to each new applicaton of ointment or lotion.
If your tattoo oozes throughout the day, blot with dry paper towel.
For 2 weeks avoid chlorine, salt water, soaking, animal fur, pet dander and exposure to sunlight.
DO NOT: Pick, Rub, or Scratch the tattoo. If the site becomes itchy during the healing process smack the tattoo gently.
After the scabs have naturally fallen off there will be "new skin" exposed. Continue to use lotion on the newly tattooed area.
Keep in mind that sunlight can fade and even destroy tattoos, make sure you put on a good sunscreen whenever you are exposed to the sun's harmful rays. It is recommended that a sunscreen with 30-45 spf be used for the life of the tattoo.
Your new tattoo is your responsibility once you leave our studio. Use common sense, and if at anytime you have a question give us a call at (845)297-3001.
