Aftercare

If using 'Saniderm' or similar brand keep the bandage on for 3-5 days. You can expect some body’s natural fluids and plasma forming underneath the patch and it may look not pretty. there is nothing to worry about when the patch is removed and tattoo washed everything goes back to normal. Saniderm is breathable and waterproof so you can shower with it on, but DO NOT use hot water.
Let your tattoo fully dry for 10 minutes after you wash it before applying Aquaphor or lotion. Pat dry immediately after washing then let it air dry. If you put petroleum-based products over a tattoo that is even somewhat damp, you're locking that water in your skin and you want to avoid that.
If using regular bandage - Keep your bandage on for at least 2 hours (up to 6 hrs).
Wash your hands with antibacterial soap before cleaning or touching your tattoo.
When removing your bandage, rinse tattoo with warm water and clean paper towel.
After removing your bandage wash twice a day with just warm (not hot) water and a mild fragrance-free liquid antibacterial soap, and apply a thin layer of ointment (Aquaphor) 3-4 times a day.
After the first 2-3 days, switch to a mild unscented lotion (Lubriderm) or coconut oil. Avoid lotions with fragrances or aloe.
If possible, use freshly washed bedsheets, clothes, and towel during the healing process. Disposable paper towels are great for direct contact with the tattoo when washing or drying.

Do not scratch or pick. This removes ink and leads to infections!
Avoid direct sunlight. For the first two weeks try to limit sun exposure - if you know you'll be out in the sun for prolonged periods, wear a thin layer of clothing over the tattoo. After the first two weeks, use a high SPF sunscreen on your tattoo when in the sun. Avoid tanning beds for at least a month.
Avoid soaking in any waters (lake, ocean, bathtub, pool) for the first month, especially critical during the first two weeks.
Avoid heavy sweating in the area of your tattoo for two weeks. Wash after sweating.
Do not use too much lotion or Aquaphor. Put only a thin layer as you would if you moisturized the area normally.
Do not let your tattoo stick to sheets or clothing. If stuck, soak the cloth to remove rather than ripping it off. This is usually only a concern for the first night when it will be a bit oozy.

Color and plasma may seep to the surface, especially when first removing the bandage. This is normal. Wash gently with warm water and wipe with a clean paper towel and reapply ointment or lotion.
For the next week, the tattoo and area around it may be slightly swollen, red, and sore.
Within a few days to a week, a thin scab should form evenly over the tattoo and peel like a sunburn. (Do not pick at it!)
The color may seem dull or uneven while the tattoo is healing.

It should be completely healed in one month! Enjoy your tattoo forever! For best results, avoid sun exposure (wear SPF), and keep moisturized.