Wash
2-3x daily with unscented antibacterial soap and lukewarm water
Aftercare
Your tattoo is an investment. Protect it. Essential aftercare instructions from Ink Heist.
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Your tattoo is an investment.
Protect it.
Follow these instructions. No shortcuts.
First 2-4 Hours
Immediately after your session.
Leave the bandage on for the time specified by your artist (typically 2-4 hours)
Wash hands thoroughly before removing bandage
If using Saniderm/second skin, follow specific instructions provided
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Daily Care
Weeks 1-3: The healing process.
Dry
Pat dry with clean paper towel—never cloth towels
Moisturize
Apply thin layer of unscented moisturizer (Lubriderm, Hustle Butter, Aquaphor)
Maintain
Keep clean and moisturized—not oversaturated
What to Expect
The healing journey.
Days 1-3
Fresh, slightly tender, may ooze ink/plasma (normal)
Days 4-7
Begins to flake and peel. DO NOT PICK OR SCRATCH.
Week 2
May look dull or cloudy. This is normal—it's healing from below.
Weeks 3-4
Settles into final appearance
4-6 weeks
Fully healed
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Do NOT
Submerge in water No pools, ocean, baths for 2-3 weeks
Pick, scratch, or peel Let flaking skin fall naturally
Direct sunlight UV destroys fresh ink
Petroleum products No Vaseline, A&D ointment
Tight clothing Avoid rubbing the tattoo
Heavy exercise Wait 48 hours post-session
Warning Signs
Contact us immediately if you experience:
Excessive redness, swelling, or heat after day 3
Yellow/green discharge (not clear plasma)
Red streaks extending from tattoo
Fever or flu-like symptoms
Severe pain beyond normal tenderness
Don't guess—ask. We're here to help.
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Long-Term Care
Keep your investment vibrant for life.
Sunscreen. Always.
This is the #1 way tattoos fade.
Keep skin moisturized
Healthy skin = vibrant ink
Stay hydrated
From the inside out