Over 25 Years of Healing Experience

“Proper aftercare is crucial for ensuring that your new tattoo heals beautifully and maintains its vibrancy over time. I believe that educating my clients about proper tattoo aftercare not only helps protect their investment but also contributes to their overall satisfaction with their tattoo. This page will guide you through the essential steps for caring for your tattoo, post-application, ensuring that you achieve the best possible results.” - DP

Understanding the Healing Process

After getting a tattoo, your skin will go through several stages of healing. Initially, your tattoo will be red and slightly swollen, which is completely normal. This phase typically lasts a few days. As your skin begins to heal, it’s important to keep it clean and wrapped in an occlusive bandage (sometimes referred to as ‘second-skin’). Avoid soaking your tattoo in water, such as in baths, swimming pools or hot tubs, for at least two weeks, as prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to an infection. You will also want to avoid excessive heat such as saunas, tanning and excessive direct sunlight during the healing process. By adhering to your aftercare instructions and listening to your artist, you can give your body the best aftercare needed to keep your tattoo looking pristine.

Essential Aftercare Steps

Required products:

Occlusive bandages (Dynarex Viewguard, Saniderm, Hypafix, TattooDerm, etc.)
Antibiotic Ointment (polysporin triple action ointment, neopsporin ointment, no name triple action antibiotic ointment, Aquaphor Antibiotic ointment, etc)
Unscented Soap (Ivory or Dove is fine)

Your artist will wash and wrap the tattoo in an occlusive bandage when the procedure has ended. Leave this bandage on for 24 hours, or until you are done your exercise routine or physical work day the following day. Sweat will loosen the bandage and you do not want to trap it inside the bandage so it is a great time to change and wash the the tattoo.
Always peel the bandage off slowly, from the top of the tattoo, IN THE SHOWER! Avoid dry peeling the bandage. Allow the bandage to fill with water and slowly remove. The plasma on the tattoo needs to be washed off using soap and your hand.
Always use a clean, dry towel to pat the tattoo dry. Then leave the tattoo to air dry for a few mins. If it leaks anymore plasma, redab with the clean towel
Cut pieces of the occlusive bandage as your artist showed you first hand when they wrapped it. Make sure to allow 1 or more inches excess bandage beyond the perimeter of the tattoo. Wrap the entire tattoo piece. This stays on for another 24 hours or until you are done your workout or physical labour for the day the next day.
Repeat 4 days of rebandaging after the first initial bandage your artist put on
On the 5th day, after removing the bandage, apply antibiotic ointment twice a day. Make sure to gently and deeply rub the ointment into the tattoo. Do this for 4-5 days then your tattoo should be healed. You can then switch to any moisturizer if you wish

* PLEASE BE ADVISED that this method of healing may not work for everyone. Tattooing, especially large sessions and areas, has a huge impact on the body. There are so many variables that may occur. Please be advised to contact your artist with any questions or concerns.

* PS. Try to avoid excess drinking, drugs and unhealthy foods. Remember, if your body is busy healing your liver, kidneys, lungs, etc., it will take longer to heal the tattoo. Vitamin supplements, healthy eating habits, plenty of rest and the least amount of stress will help in aiding the body to heal faster.

We pride ourselves on our adaptability and commitment to excellence in every aspect of our service. Explore what we have to offer and how we can contribute to your success.

Signs of Complications

While it's normal for your tattoo to experience some redness, swelling and weeping during the initial healing phase, it's important to be aware of potential complications. Signs of infection can include excessive redness, increasing pain, yellow discharge, or a fever. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to contact your doctor or a medical professional for advice. Furthermore, if you experience an allergic reaction to the aftercare products used—such as redness, itching, or rash—discontinue use immediately and consult with your tattoo artist or a healthcare provider. Your wellbeing is our priority at Wahoo Tattoo, and we encourage you to reach out with any concerns about your tattoo healing process. Being informed and proactive helps ensure that your tattoo remains a point of pride rather than a source of concern.

Need Assistance?

“Any questions or concerns about your tattoo aftercare or healing, don’t hesitate to contact me via text. I always get back to my clients about questions and concerns ASAP. I will help advise you every step of the way during the healing process.” ~ DP