1. Thirty minutes to one hour after the completion of your new tattoo, remove the bandage and thoroughly but lightly clean your tattoo with luke warm water and Dial Gold Anti Bacterial liquid soap (or any other Anti Bacterial soap), then lightly dab dry with a clean towel or cloth (do not wipe or scrub), until the ointment is completely washed off.
2. Let your new tattoo dry out for the rest of the first day. Do not apply anything to it after washing.
3. On the second day apply a very thin layer of A + D ointment to the tattoo. If you apply too much it can cause loss of color resulting in a dull tattoo. This is done 2-3 times a day for 2 days.
NOTE: Other ointments such as Neosporin and Bacitracin can be used as a substitute.
4. As of the fourth day switch from the ointments to a Fragrance Free hand lotion such as Lubriderm or Curel. Use the lotion until the tattoo is healed. If you use a Fragranced lotion it can cause uncomfortable burning and/or other reactions.
NOTE: Other hand lotions can be used, just make sure they are Fragrance Free.
5. When it comes to showering, do not let the tattoo submerge in water for too long as this can cause heavy scabbing and loss of ink. Wash the area quickly but thoroughly then remove the area from the water. During the entire healing process continue to clean the tattoo with the Anti Bacterial soap.
6. During the healing process DO NOT scratch your tattoo if it itches, rubbing and lightly patting at it should do the trick. DO NOT pick at the scabs that you may have, this can cause loss of color and scarring.
7. DO NOT expose the fresh tattoo to direct sunlight for an excessive duration of time; the sunlight acts as natural bleach to your new tattoo. The same goes for unnatural tanning as well as Chlorinated water (pools).
In case of issues with Ointments or Lotions causing problems
1. Wash well with anti bacterial soap 3-4 times a day until healed
Now go forth and enjoy your new piece of body art!
