(401) 330-7256

East Providence, RI

Shrine Tattoo

Book an Appointment

Appointment Essentials

Healing Takes Time:

A Guide to Essential Tattoo Aftercare Because Everyone's Timeline is Different

Congratulations on your new ink! Whether it’s your first piece or an addition to your collection, the journey to a beautiful and lasting tattoo doesn’t end when you leave our chair. It’s crucial to follow proper aftercare to ensure your tattoo heals perfectly and retains its vibrancy for years to come. Remember, a tattoo is for life, so a couple of weeks of care is a small but significant commitment to its longevity. At Shrine Tattoo Studio, we stand by our work, and that guarantee holds when you adhere to the following aftercare instructions.

Initial Care

  • Your fresh tattoo has been securely wrapped by your artist to protect it. Keep the bandage on for exactly 2 HOURS.
  • After removing the bandage, do NOT re-wrap your tattoo. This is vital for the healing process.

Cleaning Your Tattoo

  • Wash your tattoo for the first time immediately after removing the bandage.
  • Cleanse your tattoo 3 TIMES DAILY with a liquid anti-bacterial soap. We recommend using LIQUID DIAL, free from dyes and perfumes.
  • Always start by washing your hands thoroughly before touching your tattoo.
  • Use lukewarm water to gently clean the tattoo, ensuring all ointment and dried blood are washed away.

Drying and Moisturizing

  • Pat your tattoo dry with a clean paper towel. Avoid using cloth towels to prevent bacterial contamination.
  • Apply a thin layer of Vitamin A&D Ointment, found in the diaper-rash section of the pharmacy. Avoid Neosporin or products with zinc that can affect the tattoo's color.
  • Reapply the ointment as needed, keeping the skin slightly shiny without overdoing it. If clothing rubs off the ointment, reapply lightly but more frequently.

Clothing and Lotion

  • Opt for loose, breathable clothing to avoid irritation.
  • After a few days, you may switch to a lotion, but ensure it's free from fragrances and dyes. We suggest Lubriderm, Aquaphor, or Eucerin.

Important Reminders

  • NO SWIMMING and NO SUN exposure for at least two weeks. Treat your tattoo like an open wound during this time.
  • Only apply sunscreen after the tattoo has fully healed.
  • Avoid baths and any bodies of water that can introduce bacteria.

Healing Process

  • Flaking and peeling around day 4 or 5 is normal — it's just the superficial skin shedding.
  • If itching occurs, do not scratch. A light slap can alleviate the itch, but keep those nails away!

Infection Signs

  • Be alert for any large red sores, oozing, or a low fever. Some swelling is normal, but persistent or late swelling with pain could signal an infection. If these symptoms arise, see your doctor immediately.

Trust the Process

  • Everyone has advice, but it's not all good. Trust your artist—we aim for your tattoo to look as stunning in 20 years as it does today.
  • Follow these guidelines, use common sense, and you'll have a unique piece of art that stands the test of time.

Questions?

  • If you have any concerns or questions about the healing process, don't hesitate to contact your artist at Shrine Tattoo Studio. We're here to help.
  • And don’t forget to share a photo of your tattoo with us after it’s fully healed. (We’d love to see it!)
Contact Erin

(508) 404-3602

Contact Jared

(401) 297-7542

Contact Todd

(774) 319-3718

The Studio:

  • Hours:
    Monday - Saturday
    12pm - 7pm
Book an appointment

Contact Us:

© 2024 Shrine Tattoo. All Rights Reserved.
Facebook-f Instagram