Care instructions for your new tattoo

 

 

Wash your tattoo an hour or so after completion and continue to wash your tattoo regularly at least 3 times a day, for the next week.  Please use a non-scented type of soap.

After the tattoo is clean, apply a thin layer of A&D or Aquaphor ointment to lubricate the tattoo (you can get either of these whereever diapers are sold).  You must always keep your new tattoo lubricated with ointment for the first 3 days following the completion of your tattoo.

 

Do not cover the tattoo with a bandage or gauze.  If the ointment rubs off on your clothes, then you must re-apply it to make sure the tattoo stays lubricated.  This will avoid scabbing, which could harm your new tattoo.

 

On the 4th day, discontinue using the ointment and start applying a sensitive skin hand lotion instead, and do this for another week or so.  Continue to wash the tattoo and keep it hydrated by consistently reapplying the lotion.  During this time the tattoo will more than likely “peel” like a sunburn and some color or shading will peel along with it.  This is normal.  By keeping it continuously lubricated you are preventing it from scabbing and this is the goal. in short, keep the tattoo clean and lubricated for the next 10 days, the first 3 days using ointment, and the rest using lotion.

 

More instructions:

 

Don’t pick, scratch, or touch your tattoo excessively.  And especially don’t touch it with dirty hands or let someone else with dirty hands touch your tattoo.

Other than showering or cleaning your tattoo, stay out of water.  No pools, hot tubs, lake or ocean water for the next 10 days.

 

No tanning during the next 10 days.  Tanning is the absolute worst thing for a tattoo's longevity.  If you must, keep a good sunscreen on your tattoo.

 

Use common sense.  If your tattoo gets dirty or sweaty, wash it.  If your tattoo feels or looks dry, apply ointment or lotion.  If you are planning to be in the sun all day, make sure your tattoo is protected.

 

Enjoy your new tattoo!

 

If you have any questions, please contact us and we will be happy to answer them.

 

NMTS Staff

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If your tattoo becomes infected, painful or if a fever develops, please seek medical attention.

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Disclosure Statement/Notice for Filing Complaints

 

Public Act 149, which was enacted in December of 2007, indicates that individuals shall not tattoo, brand, or perform body piercing on another individual unless the tattooing, branding, or body piercing occurs at a body art facility licensed by the Michigan Department of Community Health. Body art facilities are required to be in compliance with the “Requirements for Body Art Facilities,” which provide guidelines for safe and sanitary body art administration.

 

As with any invasive procedure, body art may involve possible health risks. These risks may include, but are not limited to: transmissions of bloodborne diseases such as HIV and viral hepatitis, skin disorders, skin infections, and allergic reactions.

 

In addition, persons with certain conditions including, but not limited to, diabetes, hemophilia, or epilepsy, are at a higher risk for complications and should consult a physician before undergoing a body art procedure.

 

If you wish to file a complaint against a body art facility related to compliance with PA 149 or have concerns about potential health risks, please visit www.michigan.gov/bodyart.