Tattoo Aftercare Instructions

Please use proper aftercare on your tattoo to ensure the best healed results possible.

Contact your artist directly or message the shop with any questions or concerns.

1.  Immediately After Leaving the Studio

  • Your tattoo will be covered with a sterile bandage or film wrap. If you are using film wrap, please keep your tattoo wrapped until home & ready to clean but do not keep it on for longer than 2 hours. If you are using saniderm (or any similar product), please do not tamper with the bandage until ready to remove in 3-5 days.

2.  Washing & Cleaning

  • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before touching the tattoo site.

  • Gently remove the covering and wash the tattoo using lukewarm water and gentle, fragrance-free antibacterial soap. Use fingertips, not cloths or sponges. Pat dry with a clean paper towel or allow to air dry. 

  • Change your bed sheets, towels and any other linens often. Only use clean towels on your tattoo for the initial healing period of 1-2 weeks. 

3. Moisturizing

  • Apply a thin layer of fragrance‑free, hypoallergenic moisturizer (e.g., Lubriderm, Curel, Aveeno) or tattoo-specific lotion—not petroleum-heavy products like Aquaphor.

  • Keep moisturized 2–3 times daily as needed to soothe dryness.

4. Washing & Moisturizing Schedule (Days 1–14+ or until healed)

  • Clean the tattoo gently 1-2 times daily and apply moisturizer afterward.

  • Avoid over-moisturizing—skin should feel supple but not overly greasy. 

5. Peeling & Healing

  • Expect your tattoo to peel or flake after several days—this is normal.

  • Do not scratch or pick at scabs or peeling skin, to prevent ink loss or scarring.

6. Water Exposure & Activities

  • Showering is fine, but no soaking or submerging in baths, pools, hot tubs, lakes, or hot springs for at least 2–4 weeks or until fully healed.

  • Avoid activities or clothing that may cause excessive sweating, friction, or rubbing on the tattoo.

7. Sun Protection & Clothing

  • During healing, avoid direct sun or tanning beds entirely. After healed, always use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen to preserve color. 

  • Wear loose, clean clothing and bedding, free of lint, dust, or pet hair, especially during the first week. 

8. Warning Signs of Infection or Allergic Reaction

If you notice any of the following beyond the normal initial healing period of 2-4 weeks seek medical attention:

  • Increasing redness, swelling, prolonged tenderness

  • Yellow or green discharge (pus), foul odor

  • Persistent fever, chills, nausea or lymph streaks

  • Rash, blistering, or signs of allergic reaction to ink or aftercare products.

9. Other Important Information

  • Please contact Boulder County Public Health at 303-441-1100 with any concerns.

  • Horn & Heart Tattoo is a licensed body art facility approved by Boulder County Public Health Department.