Keep It Fresh, Keep It Forever
Aftercare & FAQ
How you heal decides how your tattoo looks for the rest of your life. Here’s exactly what to do.
Healing Timeline
- First few hours
Leave the wrap on
Keep the bandage on as long as your artist says, usually 2–4 hours, or 3–5 days for clear second-skin film. Wash your hands before you touch it.
- Days 1–3
Wash gently
Wash 2–3 times a day with lukewarm water and unscented soap. Pat dry with a clean paper towel, then apply a thin layer of aftercare balm. Some redness and oozing is normal.
- Days 4–14
Peeling and itching
It will flake like a sunburn and itch like crazy. Don’t pick, peel or scratch. Slap it lightly if you have to. Keep moisturizing, but keep it thin.
- Weeks 2–4
Surface healed
The top layer is done, but the skin underneath is still settling. It may look a little cloudy. That clears up. Keep it out of direct sun.
- For life
Protect your ink
Sun fades tattoos faster than anything. SPF 30+ on sun days keeps your lines crisp and your blacks black for decades.
Do
- Wash your hands before touching it
- Wear loose, clean clothing over it
- Sleep on clean sheets
- Drink water and rest up
- Message us with any question, any time
Don’t
- Swim or soak: pools, baths, ocean and hot tubs for 2 weeks
- Tan or sit in direct sun
- Pick, peel or scratch the flakes
- Smother it in thick ointment
- Let tight clothes or straps rub on it
When to see a doctor: redness that spreads or gets worse after day 3, heat, swelling, pus, red streaks or a fever can be signs of infection. See a doctor right away, then let us know.
Frequently Asked
How do I care for my new tattoo?
Follow the healing timeline above: keep it clean, keep it lightly moisturized, keep it out of water and sun, and don’t pick at it.
How long does healing take?
The surface heals in about 2–3 weeks. The skin underneath keeps settling for 4–6 weeks. Touch-ups within the first 3 months are on us.
How much does a tattoo cost?
Every piece is quoted individually based on size, detail and placement. Our shop minimum is $80. Bigger custom work is quoted per session. Ask for a free quote.
Do you take deposits?
Yes. Custom appointments need a $100 deposit to lock in your date. It comes off the final price of your tattoo.
Do you accept walk-ins?
Yes. Walk-ins are welcome whenever an artist is free. For custom pieces, booking ahead guarantees your spot.
Do you tattoo minors?
No. You must be 18+ with a valid government photo ID. No exceptions.
How should I prepare for my appointment?
Get a good night’s sleep, eat a real meal beforehand, drink water, skip alcohol for 24 hours, and wear clothes that give easy access to the area.
Can I use numbing cream?
Talk to your artist first. Some numbing products change how skin takes ink, so we’ll tell you what’s okay to use.
Do you do cover-ups?
Yes. Cover-ups and reworks are a specialty here. Send a clear photo of the old tattoo with your booking request so we can plan it.
Can I work out after getting a tattoo?
Give it 48 hours. After that, keep it clean, avoid friction on the area and don’t swim until it’s fully healed.
What if I need to reschedule?
Give us at least 48 hours’ notice and your deposit carries over to your new date.
Ready to wear your story?
Tell us the idea. We’ll match you with the right artist and build it from scratch.