Aftercare

Tattoo aftercare

A clear, step-by-step healing guide for R INKS ARTS clients. Good aftercare protects your skin and keeps your tattoo looking its best for years.

Step by step

  1. 01

    Keep the tattoo protected

    Follow the specific instructions Ramón gives you about when to remove your bandage or protective film. The recommended time can vary depending on the type of covering used and the tattoo.

  2. 02

    Wash your hands first

    Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching or cleaning your fresh tattoo.

  3. 03

    Clean the tattoo

    Gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and Protex Antibacterial Soap. Use your clean hands to gently remove any excess plasma, ink or residue.

    Do not scrub, and do not use a washcloth, sponge or any abrasive material.

  4. 04

    Dry gently

    Pat the tattoo dry with a clean disposable paper towel — never rub it. Let the tattoo air dry briefly before applying an aftercare product.

  5. 05

    Moisturize lightly

    Apply a very thin layer of an appropriate aftercare product. R INKS ARTS recommends one of these options:

    • Lubriderm Fragrance-Free Lotion
    • Tattoo Goo
    • Derma Gran-B

    Choose one option — do not apply these products together. Avoid using too much product or over-moisturizing the tattoo.

  6. 06

    During the healing process

    Keep the tattoo clean and avoid unnecessary touching. Do not scratch, pick or peel it — let any peeling or flaking happen naturally.

    Avoid swimming pools, beaches and ocean water, hot tubs, baths, soaking and prolonged water exposure while the tattoo is healing.

    Avoid unnecessary direct sunlight, and minimize friction from tight or dirty clothing.

  7. 07

    After the tattoo has healed

    Once your tattoo is completely healed, use sunscreen regularly whenever it will be exposed to the sun. This helps protect it from UV exposure and preserve its appearance.

What to expect

What is normal during healing?

Some temporary tenderness, mild redness, itching, dryness, flaking and peeling can occur during normal tattoo healing.

Important

R INKS ARTS provides tattoo aftercare guidance, not medical diagnosis or treatment. If redness or pain is worsening rather than improving, or if you develop significant swelling, unusual drainage/pus, red streaking, fever, or other concerning symptoms, seek evaluation from a qualified healthcare professional.

Recommended by R INKS ARTS

Aftercare products

Aftercare options — use one moisturizing option at a time, in a thin layer.

Protex Antibacterial Liquid Soap

Protex Antibacterial Liquid Soap

For gently washing and cleaning the tattoo during the healing process.

Lubriderm Fragrance-Free Lotion

Lubriderm Fragrance-Free Lotion

For light moisturizing during healing. Apply only a thin layer and avoid over-moisturizing.

Tattoo Goo

Tattoo Goo

Tattoo-specific aftercare option. Apply a thin layer according to the product directions and the artist’s aftercare instructions.

Derma Gran-B

Derma Gran-B

An R INKS ARTS aftercare product option. Apply a thin layer following the artist’s instructions.

These are recommended aftercare options — they should not all be applied together at the same time. Always follow the specific aftercare instructions Ramón gives you for your tattoo.

Questions about your healing? Follow the instructions Ramón gave you at your appointment.